Here is what you need to do:

1. Graduate in the top 10% of your HS class

2. Take as many advanced classes and AP classes as possible

3. Get 2100/2400 or better on your SATs

4. Do at least a few extracurricular activities — choose some that are fun and some that show leadership — this is probably less important than most people think

5. Choose people who know you to write letters. A letter from a teacher who knows you is better than a letter from a conggressman or CEO that you met once.

6. Write a killer essay. Take a lot of time crafting this — it may be the thing that gets you in.

Even with all of this, you may get rejected at NYU (there are no sure things) — but wou will get into some great university.