what does it take to be a "standout"?

Applying to College
1

<p>Since the people applying to elite colleges these days have almost identical stats (gpa, test scores), what does it take to be a “standout” when applying for colleges?</p>

2

<p>I wouldn’t know, but I suggest reading several articles on Cal Newport’s blog: Study Hacks. </p>

<p>Here’s an article that I believe can answer your question:
[Study</a> Hacks Blog Archive How to Get Into Stanford with B’s on Your Transcript: Failed Simulations & the Surprising Psychology of Impressiveness](<a href=“http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/03/26/how-to-get-into-stanford-with-bs-on-your-transcript-failed-simulations-the-surprising-psychology-of-impressiveness/]Study”>How to Get Into Stanford with B's on Your Transcript: Failed Simulations & the Surprising Psychology of Impressiveness - Cal Newport)</p>