WHAT DO SCHOOLS LOOK AT WHEN CONSIDERING APPLICANTS?

Admissions counselors indicate that they are receiving more and more applications that look pretty much the same on the surface based on grade point average and college entrance test scores (ACT & SAT). On closer examination, here are some of the things they consider in the process of determining how to offer admissions to:

Junior and/or senior schedule lacking academic courses beyond minimum core requirements. If you just take the minimum required classes and avoid going beyond these, on paper you run the risk of looking like someone only interested in putting out the minimum amount of effort required to finish the task at hand. Colleges are looking for motivated students who want to excel and distinguish themselves academically.
Taking the easier course when more rigorous options are available. Being an aide when you could take a more challenging English, math, or science class can make you appear as someone looking for a way to complete your credit requirements without having to confront intellectual challenges.