You probably have at least some idea of what you're looking for in a college, and if not, the resources on this site will help. Here's another thing to think about: Do you know what colleges are looking for in a student?

The college admission process works kind of like a relationship. A good match occurs when you and a school are well suited to one another. By building strong college credentials in the form of an impressive academic performance and proof of commitment and leadership in extracurricular activities, you can improve your chances in the selective college admission process.

The Selectivity Factor
You don't have to be the best student in the world to go to college. You do need to be a competitor. Most students think that "selective" colleges are academically elite colleges. That's not always true.

Selectivity is more a matter of supply and demand. The more students there are competing for a given amount of seats, the more selective the school will be in filling them. Why? The school has more choices.

Every college determines what it's looking for, but the best thing you can do to increase your chances of getting in is to apply to schools for which you're well-suited in terms of academics, test scores, and other credentials.

What You Can Do
First things first, invest some energy in your report card, even during senior year! However, academics are only one part of the credentials equation. To really compete, you need to make the most of your talents. How? Nurture them!

Give yourself some credit
This is not the time for modesty. Think about what you do well and write it down. List everything you can think of!

There's no place like home
Your family can be a great source of insight on your talents and abilities. Talk to the folks who know you best.

Take it to the next level
Once you've identified your talents, amplify them! Broaden and deepen your involvement throughout your high school career.

Once you've figured out what sets you apart, the trick is to make sure that your prospective colleges know about it - to compete! This is the heart of what you want to communicate when you apply, both during interviews and in your admission essay.