I was going to make a build that had subpar attributes and skills but I guess that isn't possible.  The logic in the universe make sense as corporations would be selective on who they sent out to colonize but it would be nice to play the anomaly that slipped through the venting process.  I guess the best I can do is make a level 1 character who is really dumb, so far not impressed as all that does if give me a conversation option but all the rest seems to be the same. 

It's not the ideal option, but you can always choose to ignore levelling your skills and perks as you progress in the game. Dunno if you can decline attribute points however.

That is what I am doing.  I have a build with below average intelligence that I won't level but I still had to place points into other attributes to be allowed to continue character creation.  So I have a strong dumb guy who is going to remain level 1.  So far I haven't seen any difference in how the story has developed for him but only a few quests in at Edgewater.