Does personal circumstances matter(UCLA)?

Don’t count on the UCs caring about why you have a low GPA and rank, just that you do. Shoot for the stars with applications, but be realistic and put in plenty of solid/safe choices as well.

My kid had seriously legit medical reasons on the front end of school. She came back like a champ with straight A’s, even while fighting issues. Honestly, the UCs didn’t care. Flat denials all over the board. Now the private schools loved her, but UCs, not so much.

It’s you who makes your opportunities in life through your actions and character. Aim high, but cover all your bases for plan B. Keep in mind that there isn’t a set path to a great life, and it surely isn’t just through UCLA (or even the UCs).