This alternative college guide from a former Dartmouth assistant admissions director-turned-consultant gives non-straight-A students advice on the many options available to them and tips on how to identify, gain admittance to, and pay for the schools that will allow them to flourish. Less-than-perfect grades? No problem! Contrary to popular opinion, you don't need to have a 4.0 GPA or a perfect jump shot to get into a good college. This insider's guide reveals easy tweaks that will pay off big-time in showing admissions officers that you as a whole-not just your SAT scores-are a perfect fit for their incoming class. With stellar advice on getting into schools that will allow you to thrive, this handbook reveals how to- - Find great colleges that are a good match for your strengths (and will overlook less-relevant weaknesses) - Painlessly beef up your application - Tailor extracurriculars to showcase your uniqueness - Make sure your recommendation letters emphasize the right qualities - Write original essays that reveal traits beyond your transcript - Make an impression on admissions officers and college interviewers - Create an early-admissions strategy to increase your likelihood of acceptance - Help your chances if you're deferred - Get into brand-name schools through the side door - Communicate about learning disabilities or special circumstances - Get scholarship money based on attributes other than grades - Customize your financial aid strategy BONUS- Includes an appendix of130+ selective colleges to consider!