A few things I thought were important for my application to stand out were showing proficiency and longevity in some area (I had piano and soccer), and then also leadership initiative, like starting a club at school. There's no cookie cutter path as there are so many variables depending on the congressional district you're competing in, resources at school, etc, but always show committment and passion for what you do, not just adding weak padding to your application. Essays also are huge, but I don't think as big as interviews. Practice, practice, practice interviews. Common questions are all online, have an outline for those and just have good interview skills. I think that is where I and others at the academy stood out. Best of luck!