How Extracurriculars Help Your College Application

We know you want to impress colleges with your accomplishments in the classroom, but your academics aren’t the full picture to who you really are. Yes, colleges want bright students. But even more, they want bright, well–rounded students. That's where your extracurricular activities come in.

Grades and test scores are very important, but so are the extra activities you choose to do on your own time. Admissions officers are looking to create a class made up of students with diverse interests and backgrounds. They'll look closely at your extracurriculars to get a sense of the person you are and what you care about.

How much you do isn't as important as being committed to what you do

A college application with scattered interest and involvement over four years looks flakey. A student that runs track and sings in the choir throughout four years of high school shows passion and commitment. Find out early on what sparks your interest and stick with it.

Demonstrate leadership

If you have the opportunity and drive to be the captain the tennis team, president of the French club, or editor of the school lit mag, seize the opportunity. Colleges like responsible leaders who earn the respect of their peers.

An after–school job shows maturity

Don't worry if an after-school job prevents you from participating in extracurriculars. If you have to work so that your family can make ends meet, be sure the colleges you apply to understand that. Helping to support a family is a serious responsibility that demonstrates character. And just as with extracurriculars, it's impressive if you retain a job for an extended period and rise to a position of responsibility.

Extracurriculars can be valuable experience

If you have a career goal or study interest that you can pursue outside the classroom, take advantage. Think you might be interested in medicine? Try volunteering at a local hospital. Are you destined to be a writer? Join your school's newspaper or yearbook. These activities can help give you a strong foundation should you decide to pursue them further, academically or professionally.

Some colleges and scholarship committees may ask you to include a high school resume with your application materials. Get our tips for crafting your college admissions resume.

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