Discussion below reminded me of a recent conversation with my PD. Someone customized their personal statement talking about wanting to train here for our world renowned education...and I mean we have a decent program (definitely one many of the people on this crowd will consider beneath them) and my PD thought it was more insulting than flattering. I mean they know they are not harvard etc so kiss ass but do it less hyperbolically <ok but like doesnt it depend on the applicants background and what if they truly think your program is amazing < then say it is amazing. we are not world renowned in anything and we know it