One of the key characteristics that colleges look for in applicants is ambitiousness. Colleges look for students who have a concrete plan and a solution to achieve it. If the student challenges himself to do this in a short amount of time by taking more classes, it can be even more appealing. Not only can taking more classes be beneficial, but taking advanced and more challenging classes is desirable to admissions offices. Showing ambitiousness as a person is one way to overcome other past inhibitors such as lower grades, as it shows that you have stepped up to adversity to overcome a challenge.
The first step along the road to college and throughout college is always grades. Grades create a representation of not only a student's knowledge, but also her ability to study. As the importance of grades varies from college to college, some colleges have minimum GPAs (Grade Point Averages) to even apply, while others are more concerned with character qualities. Grades are not only important to those applying to college, but they maintain the central focus throughout school, as maintaining a GPA below a certain threshold can result in academic probation and even expulsion from school.
One of the reasons behind why so many admissions processes require sample essays and letters of recommendation is that they want to get a feel behind who someone is and what he is about. Extracurricular activities are one of the key focuses of judgment behind how well-rounded an applicant is. Being well-rounded means that you are involved in activities that don't necessarily garner a reward for yourself, but instead selflessly devote time to things you are passionate about. This may include volunteer organizations, debate teams or fundraising groups.
Playing sports is also judged as a positive attribute, as it shows that a person can meet challenges and practice in a team environment. Sports also show that you can multi-task, devoting time to several different aspects of your life.