Extracurricular activities in high school can often seem stressful with the selection process, issues with time management or availability, and the struggle to balance academics and after-school commitments. On top of that, impressing college admission committees may seem like an even more daunting task that requires you to take on a multitude of hobbies. However, prioritizing your interests and level of involvement in extracurriculars will leave you with more rewarding results. Below are some examples of activities that can accentuate your college applications and factors to help you determine which ones to partake in and highlight on your applications.
Diversity of extracurriculars
In constructing your college applications, it’s important to include extracurriculars that showcase your well roundedness and multifarious interests. Include what you believe to be the most notable facets of your academic and non-scholastic life instead of limiting yourself to one activity. Sports, clubs, and volunteer work are typically the most mentioned in applications; therefore, it’s crucial to establish your individual identity. Admission committees would rather see what makes you special instead of reading a conventional, standard list that could come from any applicant. If you have a passion for a certain cause that you’ve volunteered for, mention it. Or maybe you operate a small business where you sell your art or handmade crafts. Emphasizing the different hobbies and pastimes you enjoy can help personalize your application and underscore your determination in making a mark in your community.
Related: Top High School Activities to Boost College Applications
Enthusiasm and involvement
Consistency and prolonged interest are two key components of your extracurricular selection process. Your extracurriculars should be activities you truly want to participate in rather than just check marks on your application; admission committees can tell if you’ve joined a bunch of clubs over the years just to beef up your résumé. Being invested in extracurriculars that relate to what you want to study is a practical method to prepare for the future. For example, if you’re interested in majoring in Musicology or Music Theory, joining your school’s band or choir could be beneficial for you. It would also be wise to research any internships, whether during the summertime or the school year, where you can work under established music directors, composers or producers, and other figures in the music industry. Participating in various activities can also work oppositely and help you decide what degree would suit you best. From the perspective of an admission committee, commitment to activities can also translate to dedication to academics and extracurriculars your desired college provides.
Quality over quantity
The theme of quality over quantity is also applicable in choosing extracurriculars that will impress admission committees. For instance, joining a few after-school clubs and becoming the (vice) president, secretary, or another elected role is more valuable than committing to more than you can handle. Bearing an official position typically means that you actively attend, participate in, and lead or direct meetings. Admission committees will be more intrigued by a student who plays a chief role in two extracurriculars than a student who lightly participates in seven. In addition, signing up for too many extracurriculars can lead to academic exhaustion and overscheduling, which hinders your studies. Ultimately, engaging in too many extracurriculars is counterproductive and disrupts your time management regarding your school life and free time.
Related: 4 Summer Activities That Will Impress Colleges
Overall, enjoying your extracurriculars should be your top priority. The time and effort you spend participating in whatever activities you pursue should be discernible by the admission committee. Balance your time wisely and only engage in what interests you instead of neglecting one extracurricular for another just to bolster your college applications. Since extracurriculars can help differentiate you from other applicants, indicate ones that will highlight your unique personality and prowess. Admission committees want to see a well-rounded student who actively participates in their community and knows how to choose what may benefit their campus in the future.
Looking for other ways to stand out in the admission process? Check out Our Best Advice for Tackling Your College Applications for tips on writing your essays, filling up the activities section, and more.
