Having a perfect score, or perfect scores, perfect transcript or perfect activities does not make a perfect applicant, and most importantly, not a perfect child. Parents must look beyond the scores of their children and scores of their children's classmates. I know it is impossible to do.
Kids may hide themselves behind a perfect facade. We as parents, must see through the facade, and ask and sense what our kids are struggling with. I know it maybe difficult to accept the fact that is contrary to your belief.