Similar experience. My MIT reports were largely average in terms of output, despite very strong "raw puzzle solving ability", if that makes sense. However, I ha

Similar experience. My MIT reports were largely average in terms of output, despite very strong "raw puzzle solving ability", if that makes sense. However, I had some amazing state school reports, they blended talent for unconventional solutions, strong work ethic, and the attitude of someone who doesn't think their lives are already figured out due to their college degree. One problem is that there are plenty of really bad state school people too. The bottom line is that if you select carefully, and don't let fancy degrees bias you, you will find some of your best people from "boring" places.