Being a minority can make a big difference.

BYU applicants all have AP/CE/Honors Classes. BYU does not adjust GPA based on class load, but say they consider it. My advice is actually to take *some* of these classes but not over do it. It needs to look like you challenged yourself and then GPA is king.

And everybody has extracurriculars. They are necessary but don't likely make a difference. Have some and you are GTG.

And - controversially, maybe - I feel the same way about recommendations and essays. They need to be good, but for a white kid from Utah (to put a point on it) won't help you get a leg up if you are close call. Bad essays and bad recommendations of course hurt.

If you check the other boxes, grades are king and then test scores (at least in era of test-optional, it may - and I think should - favor standardized testing over grades).