At least part of the problem is that it isn't well defined what colleges look for in applicants. For applying to something like YC, the goal is pretty clear. Ap

At least part of the problem is that it isn't well defined what colleges look for in applicants. For applying to something like YC, the goal is pretty clear. Applications are selected based on their likelihood of making lots of money in the future. Colleges select (I think) looking for people who will be "successful". Being "successful" in life is fortunately very hard to define.