The author is not fixated on perfection in college applications because it may not be truly attainable, can suggest lack of balance, and does not ensure future academic success. They may prefer indicators of a student's resilience, adaptability, and genuine capabilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author does not look for perfection in college applications likely because they recognize that true perfection is not possible and that seeking it might indicate a lack of balance in a student's life. The pursuit of perfection could also lead to dishonesty, jeopardizing the validity of the application. Moreover, perfection does not guarantee academic success; factors such as motivation, work ethic, and the ability to overcome challenges are also crucial for success in college. Therefore, while certain achievements and accolades can indicate hard work and ability, they do not fully encapsulate a student's potential. Considering that lack of support in college can affect performance, it is better to look for indications of a student's resilience and ability to adapt to challenging environments.