<p>It is better to assume the applicant pool is more competitive than you than to assume you are doing average or better than everyone else. With the former mindset, you will naturally continue to improve your profile and thus increase your chances, since you are below average. If you assume everyone else has Bs, then what’s the point of trying extra hard to get an A if no one else got one? Be aware where you stand among everyone else, but look and aim for the applicants above you, rather than below you. </p>
<p>Top schools have a large number of applicants. They can afford to be selective. But I do agree than grades in your junior and senior year have a greater weight.</p>