I saw an article recently in which the author claimed the “one thing” students can do to (1) stand out over the other students with perfect grades and test scores, and (2) gain admission to a highly-selective college is to complete a project that not only demonstrates their passion, but also helps others. The author advised that the best way to accomplish this is to start the project during the freshman year.

I have no issue with the advice itself. I’m sure most colleges would be impressed with a student who spent four years doing an intense project that helped other people.

But I wish the recommendation weren’t couched as a way to gain admission to a prestigious college.

First, there’s no one action you can take that will automatically give you an admissions advantage at prestigious schools. A magic formula doesn’t exist here (if it did, someone would have found and profited from it already).

Second, a student who undertakes any activity in high school driven only by the desire to attend a prestigious college is setting herself up for disappointment. That’s not pessimism; it’s just math. The most prestigious schools hear from thousands of the most accomplished applicants in the world and have no choice but to deny them in droves.

And finally, a student who pursued a real interest in the form of a project like this, who committed herself, enjoyed doing so, learned, and helped people along the way, has already won. She doesn’t need an admission from Northwestern or Georgetown or UCLA to validate everything she’s done (though plenty of colleges will happily welcome her to put her skills to use on their campuses, whether or not the schools are prestigious).

Dispensers of college admissions advice, let’s keep encouraging kids to work hard and discover their interests. Let’s encourage them to make an impact in activities they enjoy and to be excited about their future in college and beyond. And while we’re doing those things, let’s cut the cords that unnecessarily—or worse, inaccurately—tie these recommendations to specific admissions outcomes.