<p>Every year you hear about kids w/2200-2350 SATs, 4.0 UW GPAs, strong ECs, Recs., and Essays getting surprise rejections— And also some w/lower statistics getting into programs thought to be way out of reach. Which colleges truly evaluate applicants holistically, looking for unusual strengths? My child was accepted last year OOS to UMich, UCLA, Bucknell w/ a low 1900 SAT, 3.6-3.7 GPA. She was, however, an accredited sailor and co-captain of the soccer team that went to the State finals, and spent a summer studying abroad in Paris. With so many applicants having great stats, seems having something distinguishing can make a big difference. Some colleges really do look for a heterogeneous mix of interesting kids.</p>
<p>the lesson is that sometimes reach schools do work out, even big reaches. You only need to hit one.</p>