In these of unleaded fuel, you may use spark plugs until the electrode erodes away. Every-so-often, check the center electrode for a sharp edge. As slowly rounds off, file it sharp.
Admissions officers look first at test scores, the rigor of the courses you take, and your grades in those courses. After that, they are interested in a student's extracurricular activities -- in other words, how you spend your time outside of classes.
Special admissions will only be considered where a student has a genuinely outstanding admissions test score or undergraduate record, or has other unique qualifications that are considered to offset a minor deficiency in one of the eligibility standards.