I think it's the test optional issue that has caused such a rise in applications to the HYPSM schools and other T-20 schools during the EA/ED round and likely the RD round as well once the numbers all come out. Do communicate with the GC often and well, especially if you are planning to apply EA or ED... it's much less stressful if you are first in line to get your stuff uploaded to Naviance/CommonApp/Coalition.