Many believe that college admissions is merit-based, rewarding the best students. Selingo, who was embedded in three different admissions offices, dispels entrenched notions of how to compete and win at the admissions game, and reveals that teenagers and parents have much to gain by broadening their notion of what qualifies as a "good college." Hint: it's not all about the sticker on the car window. Admissions officers often make split-second decisions based on a variety of factors-- like diversity, money, and, ultimately, whether a student will enroll if accepted. Selingo guides prospective students on how to honestly assess their strengths and match with the schools that will best serve their interests. -- adapted from jacket