<p>I think hoedown’s point is correct that sometimes applicants who have compelling cases that they have achieved very well in the context of their opportunities miss the chance to say so. That’s why some admission officers say things like, “Nobody likes a braggart, but if you must brag, brag on your application,” or things like that. Some students think their life experiences are commonplace, and don’t mention how challenging those experiences are. Some other students think they shouldn’t brag about their achievements, and thus hardly mention their achievements. Striking the optimum balance is difficult–there is certainly a role in K-12 education for teachers and counselors to advise students how to make their best case for admission. All of us parents here on CC try to do that on a volunteer basis for students of all backgrounds from all over the world.</p>