Be authentic. Don’t do things because you think colleges will like them. Overall, they are pretty good at fitting the pieces together to see who a student really is. You need to figure out who you are and who you want to be.
Keep options open while you figure out what makes you tick. If you placed into honors classes for your freshman year, take those so that you are positioned to take advantage of AP, etc. as you discover what really appeals to you.
Challenge yourself. If there’s something you want to try or do, give it a go and push yourself to takeit a little further. You’ll be more fulfilled, may develop some resilience, and you’ll be the best you.
Understand the college landscape. There are SO many great colleges out there. Not just the big names or most selective. If you craft a high school experience that let’s you be the best you – even if it includes some Bs and a few false starts on ECs, you’ll be able to present yourself as a great candidate for the place that fits you and your dreams.
In a nutshell, don’t make yourself a "perfect " candidate by fitting someone else’s mold. Instead make yourself a terrific you and find the place where that person will thrive.