Is a part-time job worth listing on college applications?

I've been working at a local retail store part-time during the school year, and I'm wondering if this is something that colleges would like to see on my application. Does it show responsibility and work ethic, or will it be overshadowed by other extracurricular activities?

Hey there! It's absolutely worth mentioning your part-time job on your college applications. It does show responsibility and work ethic, which are qualities colleges typically value. While it may not be as eye-catching as some other extracurricular activities, it's still an important experience that contributes to your personal growth.

Think about the skills you've gained through this job, such as time management, teamwork, and customer service. You can highlight these skills in your application, and even discuss how they might transfer to your college life. For example, maybe your experience dealing with difficult customers has taught you patience and adaptability—traits that would be useful when working on group projects or navigating college life in general.

Ultimately, it's better to list a part-time job than to leave a blank space in your application. It provides a more complete picture of who you are outside of the classroom and helps admissions officers get to know you better. Keep up the good work, and don't sell yourself short!