<p>Well, LaRemedito, what you suggest is what the college world should be ideally, but unfortunately, nothing will ever become ideal. I advised Orrican just to build upon what he already has, and I never told him to change himself to try to fit into a “Princeton image”. I told him to emphasize the aspects of his academic life and personality and explain to Princeton how these aspects connect and integrate him with Princeton academic mindset, which is already extremely diverse. Showing an admissions officer persuasively and articulately why you would work well and fit into the life of the school is always a good approach. Research and familiarize yourself with certain school policies, programs, extracurriculars, etc. and tell Princeton why these things work within your idea of the best possible education. If you read any literature about college applications they will say almost the same thing I do. I did those things, and I made it through without compromising my individuality, rather accentuating it through my highly clear and researched approach for my application.</p>