Extracurricular Ideas

Hey guys, I'm a junior in high school and I've been trying to find some new extracurricular activities to join. I want to develop my passions, but I also want to make sure they look good for college applications. Any suggestions on what I should look into? Thanks!

Hello! It's great that you're looking to expand your extracurricular involvement. Here are some extracurricular ideas that can help you develop your passions while also making a positive impact on your college applications. Remember, it's important to choose activities that genuinely interest you, rather than simply trying to impress admissions officers.

1. Clubs at your school: If your high school offers various clubs, consider joining one or two that align with your interests. You can choose from academic clubs, cultural clubs, community service clubs, or hobby-centric clubs.

2. Leadership positions: Aim for a leadership role within an existing extracurricular activity, such as being an officer in a club, captain of a sports team, or lead organizer of an event or project.

3. Community service and volunteering: Look for opportunities to give back to your community, like volunteering at a local soup kitchen, animal shelter, or non-profit organization. This can showcase your commitment to helping others while also developing useful skills.

4. Start your own club or organization: If you can't find a club that aligns with your interests or goals, consider starting one yourself. This demonstrates initiative and leadership, and can help you create a unique extracurricular experience that stands out on college applications.

5. Internships or job shadowing: Apply for internships or job shadowing opportunities in fields you're passionate about to gain real-world work experience and build valuable skills.

6. Research projects or competitions: Participate in research projects or competitions, such as science fairs, math competitions, or writing contests. This can help you develop in-depth knowledge and showcase your intellectual prowess.

7. Arts-related activities: If you have a passion for music, dance, theater, or visual arts, you can participate in relevant groups (like school bands, theater productions, or art clubs) or create an independent project to showcase your talents.

8. Sports: Joining a sports team can demonstrate dedication, teamwork, and leadership abilities. You don't have to be a star athlete to make a difference on a team – simply showing commitment and a positive attitude can go a long way.

9. Online presence: Create a blog, YouTube channel, or social media platform where you share your interests, knowledge, or creative projects. This can demonstrate your expertise in a subject and help you connect with like-minded individuals, while also creating a digital portfolio that you can showcase to colleges.

Ultimately, the key to choosing meaningful extracurricular activities is to pursue your genuine interests and passions. Admissions officers can tell when a student is authentically engaged, so focus on what you love and try to make the most of your available opportunities. Good luck!