We find that high schoolers approach the highly selective college admissions process a lot like they approach exercise. You see, everyone approaches exercise a little bit differently. There are those who lift weights all wrong — regularly — and eventually get hurt. There are those who do cardio and lift right before a big event so their muscles swell for a few hours at the opportune time. There are those who do cardio followed by weight lifting diligently — and correctly — day after day for years and have a physique that reflects their work. And so on.

Needless to say, doing cardio and lifting weights right before an important event is always a smart idea — but it’s best in combination with regular cardio and weight lifting in the days and months leading up to that event, too. You don’t want to be the high schooler who completes her college applications the day before they’re due. After all, how do you think they’ll turn out under such conditions? But you also don’t want to be the high schooler who plays sports, performs community service, and serves on student council. And why? Because elite colleges don’t seek to admit well-rounded students. That would be like working out regularly but lifting weights all wrong. You might be putting in the effort but it’s misplaced effort. You’re not going to build muscle — or submit great applications — if you don’t do the little things right and if you don’t consume the right amount of protein.

Now are you seeing how the highly selective college admissions process is a whole lot like exercise? Know someone who goes about their exercise all wrong? Know someone who goes about the college admissions process all wrong? We’re sure you do! Share your story below and we’ll be sure to jump in on the conversation.