Re: http://mitadmissions.org/blogs/entry/applying_sideways
It says to:
- Do well in school.
- Be nice.
- Pursue your passion.
Putting it into terms more understandable to forum posters and readers:
- Achieve top end grades in rigorous course work (and test scores).
- Get good recommendations and leave the interviewer with a positive impression.
- Do some extracurricular activity that you like to a high level of achievement.