xtracurricular activities are a vital part of any college application. They are not merely window dressing or gold star bonuses, but an essential component of what a student can present to a college admissions officer. If you are a sophomore or junior without extracurriculars, today is the day to involve yourself in clubs, teams, service organizations, arts groups, or whatever interests you outside of class.
These extracurricular activities help give admissions officers a rounder sense of who you are, what you like, and what you value. Your performance in class is obviously of paramount importance, but it only tells part of your story. Colleges are not only interested in serious learners, but passionate doers as well. Beyond showing a willingness to work hard and devote yourself to causes larger than yourself, your extracurricular activities let a college know that you are an artist, an athlete, a politico, or all three. They show that you are an engaged member of your community.
In shaping a freshman class, an admissions officer is looking not only for the most qualified candidates but also for a group people of diverse interests. By filling up a community with people passionately interested in multiple avenues, an admissions officer can ensure a vibrant campus.
The Benefits of Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities not only show what you have done, but what you will do on campus. Colleges live and thrive on the passion of their students, and an admissions officer wants to be sure you will do your part. If you are the kind of student who merely goes home and hits the books or watches TV after school, it’s time for a change. Join a team, audition for a play, volunteer at a soup kitchen or nursery. Everyone has a responsibility to energize their communities and colleges expect that you will fulfill that duty.
