When my daughter visited Johns Hopkins this is what stuck with us- Everyone here is as good as your or better. What sets you apart might be that you are published or have a patent. It was also made clear that accepted students would be in competition with each other. Don’t plan on any merit aid unless you set yourself apart as suggested above. Make sure you are in the environment -competitve vs collaborative that suits you as well!
We laughed and left. Went to a local coffee shop and I got a lavendar latte. I still remember how good it was! 
Good luck with your college experience. Any school would be lucky to have you.
3 Likes