<p>"i just wanted to know if you think you need to be an olympic gold medalist to gain admissions to an ivy-league school?"</p>
<p>absolutely, don't even think about applying if you don't have one of those.</p>
<p>if we had many olympic level people, we'd be the olympics.</p>
<p>you need to be smart, hardworking and show achievement, character and commitment, in whatever, but atleast in academics.</p>
<p>i know you dont have to have an olympic medal, i just meant that will a dedicated involvement in any sport, ec, or activity help in admissions? some ppl made is seem you cant be a smart, competitive figure skater and gain admission to columbia, or any other ivy league school...</p>
<p>Different ECs are interesting. Almost everyone does NHS, so it's not much of a big deal. If you look at my stats profile, you should see I am an unofficial priest of a temple. That sounds different and unique. I DO IT WITH PASSION TOO (I am not trying to brag . . . forgive me if i sound as though I am bragging). Having passion for your EC is extremely important. Haveing a different and unique EC is important too, but you must show passion. Explore more though your area of interest. </p>
<p>I see that Godfatherbob is interest in writing. You have already won writing contests. I say thats a very good start! Persue your interest. Make the dream of publishing in New Yorker a reality. Just focus on writing, and you'll do it.</p>