<p>Well, there's truth in that, but it's not the whole truth. Many children are pushed or at least encouraged strongly by their parents. Those kids do have an edge; their parents will hire tutors, couselers, and give them advice that other kids don't have. And then of course there's legacies; though many are motivated, it is usually their parents who choose the option in the first place.</p>
<p>I don't see the whole Exeter-doesn't-have-flying-or-diving-or-ham-radio argument as valid. Exeter wants people who do unique activities; we like to brag about the kid who knitted his own clothing out of his pet sheep's wool, or the girl who founded her own NGO in Zambia, or whatever. (Anyone who's received an admissions letter from Exeter knows what I mean.) Anyway, if an extracurricular doesn't exist, you can always start a club.</p>
<p>SSATs also don't seem to be an issue. I've heard of lots of people who have gotten in with 80th percentile scores in at least one of the three tests.</p>
<p>But you should make sure your essays are good, and I agree with the other poster--make sure Exeter knows they're your only choice.</p>
<p>Keep in mind that spots for new uppers are pretty competitive, and probably a lot more so than spots for new lowers. I think we have 70-80 new lowers and only 30 new uppers each year. Maybe I'm wrong but many new uppers are athletes? Also, last year we overenrolled so this year we may be cutting back (and cutting back specifically on the non-prep classes in order to account for having too many rising students--does that make sense?).</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>you are so depressing, khon. lol. no seriously..cutting back?</p>