http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/07/cherry-creek-introduction/?src=fbcollege

Six Cherry Creek HS seniors will blog through their college application process.  This quote from the first blogger captures the right approach:
The real role of college is to support my merits, refine my strategic abilities and enrich my understanding of the world that I’m a part of. With that in mind, I approach the college search as if looking for a new best friend.