Keeping track of all your high school activities is crucial, not just as a record, but as a powerful tool to showcase your growth, dedication, and unique experiences when applying to colleges.
At College Careers Consulting, we guide students through this process, emphasizing that the activities section is far more than a checklist; it’s an opportunity to let admissions officers see your passions, commitments, and how you’ve developed outside the classroom.
Why it matters
Admissions officers review this section to assess how you’ll contribute to their campus community. Strong involvement in clubs, sports, leadership roles, or community service shows you have skills and qualities that extend beyond academics, whether it’s dedication, leadership, or resilience. By thoughtfully organizing and describing these experiences, you can paint a vivid picture of yourself as a well-rounded individual who brings more than just academic prowess to the table.
What to Include
Think broadly about activities. Sports, clubs, volunteer work, and part-time jobs are all valuable, but don’t overlook other unique involvements. Include it if you spend time building a skill, like coding, crafting, or tutoring neighbors. Activities reflect your interests and initiative, so be creative! Admissions teams want to see how you spend your time meaningfully.
Start Early and Track Details
Begin journaling your activities as early as freshman year. Log hours, weeks, and any achievements. This simplifies your application process and lets you notice patterns in your commitments, showcasing long-term involvement. This detailed tracking is essential, as applications often require specific information on hours and weeks spent, responsibilities, and outcomes.
Do a Brain Dump
Start by listing everything you’ve done, no matter how small it seems. You might discover common threads or skills you developed across multiple activities. Rank each activity by longevity and impact—something you started or a role that profoundly connects to your intended college major might rank higher.
Wordsmithing
The 150-character limit can feel daunting, but this is where you get to show off your impact. Be concise, use action verbs, and avoid repeating words or stating the obvious. For instance, instead of “I help classmates with writing,” try “Mentored 25 students, led brainstorming sessions, and organized writing workshops.”
In short, each activity tells a part of your story.
