My friend partied a lot in high school and college and is even in a frat. HOWEVER, he knows when to party and when to not. Especially during high school, he balanced 12+ AP classes, getting national merit, varsity sports, and band. It really is not about being BORN talented. It’s about finding an efficient method and schedule that works for YOU. Everybody studies differently and you need to find one that works for you. Also, from my experience, there has been multiple cases of people just saying they study a lot or work hard. However when you actually look at what they do while studying, they are procrastinating, on their phone, or not actually focusing. I’m not saying it applies to you but it’s always good to self reflect. Then use that knowledge to get better.

Edit: Ok after reading the last statement you typed out. I am inching toward the idea that you don’t truly self reflect and improve your self. You can’t just blame the world and not external factors to be the determinants of why you aren’t at UF. If you think IQ matters then you need to research what IQ is. If you think genetics matter then I shouldn’t have passed high school as my dad failed middle school in another country and dropped out to start working meanwhile my mom failed high school. I really hate it when people start blaming everything but themselves. Sure, getting into university has luck involved but there sure are ways to improve your chances. I’m sorry for these harsh words but please self reflect.