@EconPop I’m glad to have your perspective here! There is absolutely something to be said for you sharing an approach that worked for you in a different arena. Just a gentle reminder, though, that this is boarding school, so it really is different, especially when it comes to FA. To give you a little background, the 15 recommendation IS for FA applicants. I know college is a whole different animal, though, and that may sound low. I love that you cared enough to pop over to this forum to deliver what I’m sure was meant to be a rallying pep talk. But, calling the very generous and helpful folks who are sharing deep boarding school experience (including needing financial aid BTW – not clear why you would so wrongly assume otherwise) and wisdom “naysayers” is unkind at best, but more importantly: incredibly uninformed. Growing up, we used to call this “getting all in the kool-aid when you don’t know the flavor.”
So: thanks for sharing your experience. But maybe take the time to read the room a little before sharing your advice and trying to school those who know a topic very well. (Again, including BS FA.)