<p>I recently read the book "How to be a High School Superstar: A Revolutionary Plan to Get into College by Standing Out (Without Burning Out)". It was a good book, but what concerns me is that is that I seem to be the 'perfect but boring' type of student that the more selective colleges aren't as interested in. That is, 4.0 GPA, leadership positions and involvement in music and sports, NHS, several AP classes... in the old college admissions game I would have been a shoe in, but now the focus seems to be on being unique, genuinely interesting, and standing out. I believe I'm interesting and intelligent even though I haven't written a book or started a company; will the top liberal arts schools I apply to agree?</p>
<p>It’s hard to say. Beyond grades/scores, how much admissions like your essay or are impressed by your ECs is pretty subjective. But being academic /is/ just as valid of a way to get into top colleges as being a CEO or whatever. You’ll do fine. </p>
<p>I think putting your best work into your essays is one of the easiest ways to “stand out” from the crowd. It doesnt seem like much, but being able to connect with someone, hopefully you admissions officer, through a piece of writing is kind of a huge deal if you think about it. Starting early is the way to go!!</p>
<p>Depends on what you mean by “top liberal arts schools”. If you’re talking about WAS, they’re more like the Ivies - if you’re talking about the Top 20 LACs, you should be fine if you can post a 30+ ACT. Ar orientation at D’s Top 20 LAC, that vast majority of the incoming class had 30+ ACT or the SAT equivalent, high GPA, good ECs, multiple APs, but 35s were rare and not a single kid matriculated with a 36. In other words, they looked a lot like you. Some school in that range will take you, just pick ones you like and apply.</p>
<p>There’s no such thing as a “typical” and “perfect” high school student. Everyone is his/her own unique person…even biology says that (no, don’t talk to me about identical twins).</p>