I think the real focus for selective schools is “community” vs “community service”. If you look at essay prompts of selective schools, they are asking various questions to see how you will fit as a member of that school’s community on both an academic and social basis. They want to get a sense of whether you will enhance the school’s community. A record of community service that shows purpose, commitment and achievement will support that, as well as leadership/achievement within the school, clubs/organizations, sports teams and family. A long list of service hours (or any ECs) scattered across disparate activities without tangible achievements is not helpful.
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