@CiaraFin I believe is a student at a sub 5% acceptance rate Ivy League school. I assume her comments are based on her successful experience and those of her immediate peers. To be honest I might not always agree with her/him but I will readily acknowledge that a current student has a much better vantage point from which to comment in an informed manner then an adult parent.
Consequently I find her to be an extremely relevant and informed voice for this high school sophomore.
It would probably be useful for others to offer context for their recommendations. Meaning if you are a college counselor, alum interviewer, HS parent whose kid is applying etc it may offer insight into your perspective.
Personally I try to limit my advise to an impressionable 14 year old to what I have personally experienced, observed or been told first hand by an expert on the subject matter. That is the standard to which I would want someone to treat my own kid.