<p>Read some CC threads from last year and get a feel for the process. Keep your expectations realistic. Begin the essays early, study for the standardized test early, start doing everything as early as possible. That may go for interviews as well- if you can afford it, some have said that interviewing in the summer (at the schools) allows you to leave a more thorough impression on the AOs.</p>
<p>Good luck. You may not understand now, but keep in mind that the admissions process is only a meritocracy to an extent.</p>