<p>^^I agree littlebuilder that the students should have broad-based knowledge and be well-rounded in their “overall academics” as exemplified in their high GPA and test scores to go along with their “specialization”…</p>
<p>…but, I think, the point that you may be missing is that most of these lopsided “star” students that I mentioned earlier won’t “talk” about their accomplishments in public (even the athletes)…especially in “first encounters” like at AdmitWeekend/cocktail parties or let alone several encounters…it’s like pulling teeth…so, to the casual observer/acquaintance they may all seem just like “normal” all-around guys and gals…as you have noted…</p>
<p>…as I have said in another thread…they don’t like to wear their exceptional knowledge or accomplishments on their sleeves…most are genuinely humble and unassuming… </p>
<p>…many of the fellow students ultimately find out about their colleagues by googling their names in “secret”…I know…right…</p>