“If I take a summer class at community college I can raise my GPA over 4.0.”

“With another round of tutoring, I might break 2100 on the SAT.”

“I don’t have enough leadership, so I’m going to start a club this fall.”

That’s how some students approach college planning. They try to fix what they think are imperfections instead of doing something remarkable with their strengths. That’s like spending all your time plugging imaginary leaks on a boat without sailing anywhere.

If that sounds like your current college planning, slow down and ask yourself—are you fixing real weaknesses or plugging imaginary leaks?  A “D” in trig, test-taking troubles that are hurting your grades and SAT scores, or a high school career with no activities are weaknesses that need to be addressed.  But trying to fix every little imperfection? That’s no way to stand out and it certainly isn’t any fun.