<p>Therazor - your positivity is good, I only slightly nitpick at the <<and there=“” is=“” no=“” way=“” to=“” compare=“” yourself=“” others=“”>> bit - I think the better way to say it would be that absolute comparisons really don’t exist, but relative ones do. My own philosophy about admissions has always been that the more concrete indicators of potential and fit should be favored. If someone knew what they’re doing before you did, chances are they’re more immediately prepared. </and></p>
<p>However, like momfirst3 said - applying to colleges shouldn’t be the highlight of your life. I think any adcom would find it really sad if that were. I agree you should apply and see what happens, but I also believe in respecting when people have simply done things making them more directly prepared for the initial step of attending a great university. I do think a direct comparison can be made. But the point is you have a long time ahead of you, and after 4 years at the university, you may for all you know have things better figured out than those stellar high school applicants do. That’s just how life goes. </p>
<p>Short message: I think “applying to school is more than just intimidating accomplishments, there’s no way to compare you to others” is the wrong message, and “applying to schools is just one step, focus on developing yourself for the long term, master fundamentals, and figure out what you like to do” is a better one in my humble opinion.</p>