Extracurriculars: What Are They and Why Matter?

Hey y'all! I keep reading about the importance of extracurricular activities for college applications. Can someone explain what they are and why I need to get involved? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! Extracurriculars are activities that you participate in outside of school and your academic coursework. They can include clubs, sports, volunteer work, internships, hobbies, or even personal projects. The main purpose of extracurriculars is to showcase your interests, passions, and dedication beyond just academics.

Colleges care about these activities for a few reasons. First, extracurriculars demonstrate your ability to balance multiple responsibilities and commitments. They also give admissions officers a glimpse into who you are beyond your grades and test scores, reflecting your personality and values. Additionally, participating in extracurriculars (especially if you take on leadership roles) can display valuable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.

While having a good number of extracurriculars (usually 8-10 total) can be helpful, quality matters more than quantity. It's better to be deeply involved in a few activities, rather than being superficially involved in many. Colleges are typically more impressed by highly-developed special interests, or 'spikes', which show dedication and potential for future success in a specific area.

So, it's essential to get involved in activities that align with your passions and showcase your unique qualities. Just remember to keep a balance and focus on the quality of your involvement. Good luck!