"A kid growing up in the 'hood has different expectations than a kid growing up in Newtown, " said Bocanegra, who works with ex-offenders at the faith-based nonprofit Community Renewal Society in Chicago.

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In the extreme, a disgruntled kid could play for 4 different schools during his collegiate career.

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The essay is an opportunity to provide a different perspective about the applicant, a reason to accept a kid.

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"I used to sit and watch Elmore when I was a kid, actually all through my life, and I would see him in different stages, " Peter said.

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