I know. But you still went on to discuss those who are just externally driven. You describe them again, in #38.
They do not matter to your kid’s chances. Her review will be based on her presentation, her plusses and minuses, her effort and understanding, as it shows. Or not.
I have no issue with a kid who rounds out his activities with some for the perceived value. Most tippy tops, in fact, do want to see stretch. Regardless of the motivation, these experiences ARE experiences.
I don’t think you’re bitter. I think you believe in Ms Hypothetical. But it takes more than that to get into a tippy top. Right now, I don’t think you know what that is. So how does she put her best foot forward? Do you have a sense of the attributes Yale looks for? Have you self matched her? That’s more than how you view her potential.
I just want to see you’ve dug a little more into all this, assuming it is worth the effort, to you. Then we can help fine tune or explain.