Showing sincere interest is a sure way for college applicants to make a good impression at their No. 1 pick.

An academic passion, initiative and a proven interest in a college are key to getting your foot in the door – and they’re only some of the attributes admissions officers are looking for in their ever more competitive applicant pools.

Mark Montgomery, an educational consultant in Denver. U.S. News
talked with admissions officers says "For most kids, it's not that hard to get into college as long as you're doing the right thing".