Strive for good grades and rigorous coursework in high school. Colleges tend to notice students who have academic success in challenging courses. If you still have time, try to take Advanced Placement courses or International Baccalaureate programs while you're still in high school.
Do well on standardized tests, including the SATs and ACTs. While this may not be possible for all potential college students, the higher your score on these tests, the more colleges will take note. Taking practice tests or a class that helps prepare you for these tests can allow you to get the best possible score.
Participate in extracurricular activities. This is important for all college applicants, particularly for those struggling with academics. Extracurricular activities can include participation in organized sports, after-school clubs and out-of-school organizations. Also, taking on a leadership role during these activities makes applicants stand out even more.
Volunteer. This always sheds a positive light on college applicants, allowing each high school student to increase her appeal to colleges while potentially making a difference in her community.
Take your time on your college application. Be sure to finish it thoroughly and to submit it on time, and be thoughtful and honest in your college application essay.
Prepare a portfolio that showcases the best of your abilities if you're applying to an arts program or trade school. A sloppy or rushed portfolio shows. It might also help to run your portfolio past a few critical eyes before submitting it to the college of your choice.
Come to class. Instructors will never recognize students who aren't there.
Stay visible. This might be particularly hard in large lecture halls. However, sitting in the front of a classroom or eye-level with an instructor is one very easy way to stand out during lectures.
Involve yourself in classroom discussions. Ask relevant questions and add your critical thoughts and personal reflections to any group discussion. Many college professors seem particularly interested in involving students and having them actively participate in learning. If you initiate or contribute to even one discussion each week, your professor is almost certain to recognize and acknowledge you.
Take advantage of out-of-office hours. Many professors set up a specific time each week when they are free to meet with students and answer questions. Having one-on-one time with teachers shows them that you are interested in learning and also makes you a lot more memorable.
Take advantage of out-of-school opportunities. Instructors may invite students to lunch, to receptions, even to a bar, which may surprise many first-time college students. But college instructors are often excited to get to know students personally, and taking advantage of any and all of these opportunities will undoubtedly make an impression on instructors.