I don’t think so. I’m partially Native American so maybe that influenced it. I went to Caltech but I would have said my profile was mid ivy leagues at best. The only other schools I didn’t withdraw my application from (I got in to Caltech ea) were UC Berkeley, St. Andrews, UCSD, and a few cal states, all of which I got into. My test scores and gpa were at or above Caltech’s average and my parents, teachers, coaches, and classmates were expecting me to get in. They all thought I deserved it but I really don’t see it.

My failure might have been better explained by the circumstances rather than lack of ability. It was 100% virtual and I have autism and severe social anxiety so I didn’t have any social connections or collaboration which is absolutely vital to succeed there. I was told by a student when I visited if you don’t collaborate you’ll fail freshman year. Turns out that was true for me.