<p>Student A: slightly higher GPA (we're talking like .1 - .2 difference) with slightly more difficult courses (in like 1 subject) </p>
<pre><code> vs.
</code></pre>
<p>Student B: superior essay, reccomendations, and extracurriculars (that show leadership and a deep commitment in a wide range of areas)</p>
<p>Student B. Leadership rocks.</p>
<p>the way you worded the descriptions of Student A and B show that you obviously think student B is better.</p>
<p>From what I've learned through this process, it seems many LACs place more importance on the student's whole package: GPA, standardized tests, letters of recommendation, essays, ECs, etc... looking for a more well-rounded individual. The bigger universities/state schools appear to care more about the GPA and test scores - some don't even require an essay. </p>
<p>On PR's & USNWR's websites, and in several books, they list what each school places importance on. It is pretty interesting to see how they vary!</p>