Hi @StudyofLilia! I believe there is another room created by @BrownSugar for sharing our experience and lessons from this cycle. Here is the link https://forum.thegradcafe.com/topic/127325-202021-cycle-profileresultslessons/
Here is my take from this year's cycle (it's my first time btw)
Fit is of utmost important. Of course that isn't to say GPA and all that don't matter but a perfect GPA and GRE won't get you anywhere if your research doesn't fit with the research of the faculty.
Think broadly in terms of your interest. Don't fixate on regional interests alone. I learned that thematic fit was equally if not more important. Else, you may just have one or two professors who study the region you want to study.
Polish your SOP as much as you can. Get as many friends, colleagues, etc as possible to read it. (I did that. Had more than 8 people read my SOP).
Reach out to POI in time. Contacting professors right before or after submitting your application doesn't really work.
disclaimer: I am no expert. This is just from my personal experience.