I'm watching 2 friends in my neighborhood struggle with rejects right now. They each have learning disabilities. Cool kids. They've grown up with me, blowing up things, putting wires together to make noise, bringing me loads of geckos and toads - their mother sends them over...
Always asking w-h-y. They fit all the criteria in the letter you posted except they can't make those incredible grades...no way. Ever.
I've encouraged them to think about Jenny's road. It is rock solid. They are making alternative decisions now and I'm hoping those decisions include fun. Photography, drawing, welding along with the academics.
And The Beatles. Never discount The Beatles. No matter the road, the choice, be it MIT or GIT, Harvey Mudd or CalTech - or hey, down here at UT - The Beatles - they'll get you through. 'good day sunshine, bumpadump, good day sunshine....'
Jane