Let me put my 2c about the admission process
Since asians and whites in general were outperforming others in academics, cuz of diversity they had to make the admission process so complicated so nobody understands how exactly and why. First they said well rounded and got students/parents chasing clubs, sports, other activity. What it does, it allows to admit those with mediocre scores and GPAs.
But as counteraction, parents started making sure kids with good academics also do all of that in addition. Poor kids are busy the whole day. When that was done, colleges again faced a problem. They created an idea of a story. Everybody now has to have a story. First generation at college, slept on the street, or had nothing to eat, you name it. Athletes are untouchables anyway, but only serious ones. You cant take APs or be good academically cuz you miss a lot of classes. So as a result, good kids do work around the clock. But now nobody really understands who can or cant get in. Smoke and mirrors. Since those privilledged kids usually are not hard working, parents decided to solve the problem by buying everything they could.