<p>“I want to know why some people get into UC when seemingly more qualified applicants don’t because I want to apply but face a more qualified pool”</p>
<p>You need to be able to demonstrate to Chicago that you will be able to be a successful student, even if your numbers are not stellar. EC’s, additional materials, rec’s, essays will help. Beyond academic ability, Chicago will also be looking to see if the fit looks good - again, your application taken as a whole will be important.</p>
<p>As Chicago becomes more competitive from an admissions standpoint, serchingon’s analogy of a mosaic will become more apt. If you CAN’T take all the academically talented students for whom Chicago is a good fit, who do you take? This is why it is critically important to have a good list of colleges (including a financial safety or two) - you really don’t know how the dice are going to in any particular year.</p>