<p>Here's my question : just how much weight does the whole aspect of "volunteer activity/community service" carry in applications to the cream layer of American universities?</p>
<p>Alright, I certainly do know that the answer would be a resounding "A LOT", but then, are the applications of students who haven't been entitled to such a 'privilege' of serving their community automatically shoved to the recycling bin (both the physical and virtual ) ? What if his/her community most unfortunately doesn't need the earnest, sincere helping hands of high-school seniors and would rather severe them instead of embracing them ? </p>
<p>If I may add, this is the only nagging issue in the application process which I'm really concerned about. ECs, academics, etc. are under control, or atleast I hope so. And mind you, the fictitious student conjured up above is certainly not someone who's incapable of welcoming opportunities when they come knocking at the door. It's just that they don't seem to know his address.</p>