[Eugenia Gabrielov]

I don't know how much you've thought about actual college admissions, but this is a good time to remember a few key things...

1) Slacking off senior year will hurt your admissions status at many big-name schools. You don't have to take 9 APs, just don't sit on a pathetic schedule. Colleges appreciate people who don't slack off once they get something.

2) Do something fun the summer before senior year that reflects your interests. Go with something awesome: robotics camp, internship, go out of country, go on some backpacking/hiking thing, whatever. Many interviewers I have had so far have asked about programs I did outside of school.

3) Take your tests. Multiple big-name schools require SAT IIs, and taking the ACT doesn't hurt you (some regions have less prevalant ACT takers, and vice versa). If you get a good score as a sophomore or junior, you can stop worrying and submit scores.

4) A few Ivy League/ major private schools are VERY picky about visitation. I know Yale and a couple others seem to prefer that you have visited their campus before you apply, for varying reasons. If you're applying to a large amount of private schools, try touring their campuses and introducing yourself to admissions people...one conversation can go a long way.

/random tips