<p>Ivyinspired, I think you sound like a really good candidate, and I too am surprised you were rejected. I also agree that to have overcome those sort of challenges displays strength of character, but sometimes things come off differently to other people. What adcoms really like to see is that people have learned and grown as a result of their life experiences; maybe that didn’t come across properly on your application (purely speculation). Or maybe like catalyxmaster said, they were just looking for something specific when deciding who was the best fit for Princeton; after all, they want to admit students they think will be happy and successful at their school. Your rejection is definitely not reflective of your character or aptitude. Regardless, I’m confident you’ll be accepted at other Ivies and other fabulous schools!</p>