<p>Consider, if you will, this hypothetical situation.</p>
<p>Given high GPA (4.0 UW), decent class rank (estimated 2-3 of ~500), and strong standardized test scores (~99 percentile), might a brilliant essay somewhat atone for weaker, perhaps even mediocre, ECs? Assuming, of course, that this applicant intends to apply to first-tier colleges (Ivies, and so forth), that writing is her forte, and that the essay(s) is/are exceptionally crafted in all aspects--e.g., style, originality, depth of insight, etc.</p>
<p>Any thoughts? And yes, I admit it is a very ambiguous question, but I will appreciate any feedback!</p>
<p>It really depends on the University you apply to. Some, especially the Ivies will care because everyone has amazing stats and ECs and essays, so you would be considered a little weaker.</p>
<p>However, other top universities will not care so much about ECs, especially big state schools, like mine, UC Berkeley and also UCLA, UVA and UM.</p>
<p>amazing ec's, but perhaps shallow - if your mediocre ecs had a solid history and were done out of true interest, they're probably stronger than leadership positions at multiple clubs and sports. ivies probably hold greater weight on subjective factors exactly because many applicants have near perfect stats.</p>