The relationship between you and your college is about give and take. Admissions officers look for applicants who can offer more than just a tuition check. If your college's student newspaper is small or nonexistent, for example, outline your plans to join and help expand it. If there's no official student volunteer organization, describe the steps you would like to take to start one and get students involved in the community. College is not only about classes. Show the admissions committee how productively you plan to spend your time outside the classroom.
Your college application essay is your chance to shine your brightest. Keep it concise, but pack it full of eye-catching information about yourself and your future plans. Even if you don't know what you want to do after graduation, describe what you would do if you could do anything. The admissions committee will appreciate your creativity and imagination. If you do know what you want to do, create a clear and logical connection between attending this particular college and achieving your goals. Insert detailed information about the college to demonstrate that you've done your homework; for example, "Reading in X Magazine that ABC College has the strongest mass communications program on the West coast tells me that ABC can help my dream of becoming a TV anchor come true."
It pays to be on your best behavior during high school. Sending with your application a few letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, advisors or ministers who can speak highly of you will score you major points with an admissions committee. It shows that adults who have dealt with you in what have arguably been your most trying years have nothing but good things to say about you. Ask your letter-writers to comment on your work ethic, morals, ambition, problem-solving ability and social skills.
Many colleges don't require an in-person interview with each applicant, so scheduling one will definitely make you stand out. Use the interview to show off your poise, confidence and personality in addition to highlighting your skills and accomplishments. Brainstorm potential questions beforehand and rehearse your answers. Ask for a quick tour of the campus or the department in which you plan to study. Send a thank-you note the next day and reiterate your hopes of attending the college.