by Brennan Kruszewski

Created on: May 17, 2010

Extra-curricular activities are one of the most important criteria colleges use to determine admission. Whether you’re captain of the football team, a member of student government, or simply work a job from the moment you leave school to the moment you go to sleep, colleges are very interested in what you do with your free time.

With the amount of college applicants increasing every year, colleges are being forced to be much more selective in their screening process. The applicant pool becomes more competitive every year, with record numbers of students competing for the same number of freshman class openings. Extra-curricular involvement helps set you apart from other applicants and shows you to be a worthwhile applicant for serious admission consideration.

Interestingly enough, colleges do not care as much about which extra-curricular activities you participate in as the level of passion for and involvement in those activities. Colleges are looking for passionate people who aren’t afraid to stand up for their beliefs, as well as leaders who can inspire others to join a cause or organization. Consequently, a leadership position in a club or activity looks very good on an application, as does a high level of commitment to that activity. Phrases like “class president” or “four year participant” show such passion and dedication.

In addition, admissions officers typically frown upon applicants who use the “shotgun” approach to extra-curricular activities: participation in many activities with only limited involvement or interest. Instead of focusing on getting involved in as many extra-curricular activities as possible, focus on three or four activities that you have a legitimate interest in or may pursue in college. This will give you a much stronger application than someone who is only minimally involved in ten or eleven groups.  

If you still can’t seem to decide on an activity, or find that nothing interests you, try starting a club or organization of your own. This will help you connect with others who have similar interests, as well as show colleges that you are a self-motivated individual unafraid to take on extra responsibilities. Nothing shows colleges your motivation more than starting an extra-curricular activity so that you can share your passion with others.

In the world of college admissions, setting yourself apart from the crowd is everything. By showing passion in your extra-curricular activities, you show colleges that you are serious about something and would be a good candidate for admission. Leadership and involvement are important life skills that colleges look to see in any prospective student. By showing leadership and dedication in your extra-curricular activities, you are well on your way to being admitted to the college of your choice.

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