<p>Stories like yours have aren’t that uncommon; I can’t say I know the “truth” of it, but have heard complaints (mostly from disappointed applicants) that admissions has gotten much less predictable, with some averring there’s an increased emphasis on ‘diversity’ of the admissions pool. Statements and comments from the administration would seem to support this notion. </p>
<p>To put it another way, being valedictorian or ISEC prize-winner doesn’t guarantee anything, but if you’re a one-legged, mixed-race, lesbian dwarf, well, “Welcome to William and Mary” … ;)</p>