<p>I know it's super early for me to be thinking about college admissions in my freshman year in high school, but Harvard is my dream school.The problem is, I don't really know what I should be doing now to prepare. My main interests are science and music. I have a 4.0 GPA (I have no idea what my class rank is, my school doesn't even calculate it until junior year). I worked at a research lab in my town (150 hours). I am a member of the science club, volunteer club, and I am also the pianist for my school's jazz band. I am also working on a science fair project and this summer I am going to this national forum for medicine. I know, that was kind of a lot. I know that competition's super tough and that there are kids who start their own businesses or have dozens of EC's (my school doesn't have that many because it's small). What can I do now to help my chances. Thanks :)</p>
<p>So far, you’re on a good track, just keep up the GPA and continue doing what you enjoy. Don’t try to join 10 EC’s just to spice up your application, it won’t (in fact it could even have a negative effect). You have quite a bit of potential.</p>
<p>Since you’re into science, might also want to consider MIT (just down Mass Ave from Harvard). Both are really good schools, but IMO MIT’s better 
That’s just my opinion…not trying to be too biased or anything…</p>
<p>What you should do in your spare time is read a few good books about college admission and choosing a college. Check your public library for some. That way you will understand not only the process and what you can do to maximize your chances, but also about all the other schools out there that are just as good or close to it! Harvard accepted only 6% of applicants last year, think about that number! That is something you can’t control, the huge number of highly qualified applicants from around the world that want to go to Harvard.
So continue to excel in your studies and choose EC’s that you truly enjoy. Don’t burn yourself out trying to do a million different things, because that won’t really help you in the long run.</p>
<p>Since you’ve got plenty of time, do what I wish I’d done: get really, really into something that you love. Don’t waste your time trying to fit that “perfect formula,” because it doesn’t exist, and like others said, you’ll get burned out. Take what you like - science and music, like me! - and run with it. You’ve been researching and you’ve gotten into NYLF - that’s fabulous. Now take it further. Read books, browse internet articles, talk to people, do more research, whatever you want. Really dig into it, and make sure you love it. You’ll be a much stronger applicant if you can convey your personality through your passions. Admissions officers don’t want to see robots… Just my 2c :)</p>
<p>The others have great advice. You’re definitely on the right track for Harvard. What you can do is take the most challenging curriculum your school offers and follow your passions. If you find things you like to do, and then dedicate everything you have to those things, they will lead to more great things and eventually, you’ll have great ECs. Enjoy high school and don’t try to stress out too much about college!</p>