The Importance of Extracurricular Activities
Without a doubt, grades and test scores are huge factors in your college application, but take note that activities outside of academics are also important. Admissions officers will be looking for a diverse set of students with different interests and backgrounds that will contribute something to their school year. So the more extracurriculars you do, the better. This will give a good impression to the admissions body on how flexible you are and how you handle certain tasks.
A college application with scattered interests can look flakey. But if it is real, it will naturally show. Whether you play basketball, sing in the glee club, and enjoy photojournalism all at the same time, throughout your four years in high school, it will show how passionate and committed you are to your craft. If you only have one, that’s okay. Stick with it and focus on maximizing its potential.
Colleges want a student that leads. They look for responsible leaders and a great way to be one is aiming for a position of responsibility and taking in charge. Once you have the opportunity to be a football team captain, an editor in chief of your yearbook, or a president of the class, seize it. To list such credentials demonstrates leadership and gives you an edge as admissions officers will know how you think and how you can move people.
However, if you have after-school work, you do not need to worry if your job prevents you from doing the extracurriculars. If you work to make ends meet, the college you applied for will surely understand why. Helping not just yourself but also your family shows your character. It gives the admissions committee a perspective on how mature and responsible you are in handling bigger things. And just like with extracurriculars, it is impressive if you are staying in that job for a long time or you’re in a position of responsibility.
Extracurricular activities can be a valuable experience. Take advantage of things that interest you or career goals that you can pursue outside of a classroom. Have you always wanted to be a writer? Apply at your school’s newspaper publication. Or maybe interested in the field of medicine? Try to volunteer in your community hospital. These activities not only mold you but also give you a strong foundation if you want to pursue them further.
If you think that extracurriculars are just a waste of your time, think again. These activities will help you develop yourself, gain experiences, and maybe land in your chosen school.
Looking for more tips on college admissions? Get more information by reading our other articles at MSM Unify.
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