<p>oldb: i think you’re right that kids have to have a standout quality to get into top, top elites. Where I live the top 30 kids in the HS are 4.0+ with 2300+ SAT, are they all geniuses? No, I don’t think so, most just stay home and study on Friday nights. And most don’t get in to hyps. And I would imagine they and their parents are jealous of the athletes.</p>
<p>if you’re running admissions at an elite school you look for truly unique academic kids, who have something beyond a 4.0 and a great test scores…because there’s a lot of those kids out there. for instance a kid following my D to her University is 4.0 2350 and a national champion public speaker. all academic, no sports, but this kid is truly unique. the public speaking is what made the difference.</p>
<p>I think any kid who can demonstrate an ability to perform, and and perform at a top level in any subject matter, are the kids admissions wants.</p>