Exactly as @Gumbymom says- best to start out by reading vast amount of information available on the site here- learn about schools (Stanford and others) that provide excellent undergrad experiences, opportunities for research, etc. Admittedly its a bit frustrating to read the “its not my fault” (I am too young, she is more popular, there aren’t enough extracurricular… etc) type comments. The top schools are look for people who figure out how to work through challenges, find/make opportunities, make a difference and have a level of sophistication 9 for lack of a better word) a notch above the others. Good luck to you in your quest.