Agree with @one1ofeach. @mondaydevil you were one of the kiddos whose results had me scratching my head. You were one of the kiddos who made my heart heavy because it just didn’t seem right that you didn’t have options come M10.
So in thinking about you for this year, I came to the same conclusion as @one1ofeach – it must have been something that we couldn’t see. And that means probably somewhere in: interview, essay, recommendations. You come across as truly lovely in your posts, so that tells me that something is not getting communicated well. (I say that because in full honesty – not every kid does come across as super likable through their posts, and I think many of us adults read along and think: “oh boy, this is not going to go well in an interview for this kid!” And you need to know: this is NOT you! You are very likable!)
How can we help? (I suppose I should say “how can I help” since I can really only speak for my own willingness – but I think you know – these folks here are incredibly generous with their time and knowledge.)
I am absolutely fine with you DM-ing your brainstorm, or outline, or even last year’s essays to me. However, know that I do have a kiddo applying this year. So there is the mom in me that says: don’t send your essays to a stranger on the internet whose kid is your competition! (I hope you have gotten to know me well enough to know that I do not see it that way at all.) (and she is a year younger).
Know this, @mondaydevil – you have a group of folks who will be cheering for you come M10 this year. However I can support you in making that a super happy day, I am IN.