I was also very successful academically, I went to a top university and have a 1:1 in comp sci. Highest overall grade in my year 88%. What I will say is, we are highly neurotic people. Meaning we spend a lot of energy mulling things over in our heads, this lends itself well to learning. We also have to overcome difficulties on a daily basis, this creates perseverance and also patience traits which also lend themselves to learning. We tend to be people who isolate themselves and spend a lot of time reading also, which of course is great for learning too. The only other thing I will say that sets myself apart from others is my memory, I have an amazing memory. No idea why but I do, I seem to hold onto thoughts forever.