Hi guys, I'm a junior starting to stress a little bit about college applications. I'm involved in a variety of extracurriculars but I haven't really won any awards/competitions and I'm worried about how important these are in the grand scheme of things. Should I be concerned? How do colleges view these achievements? Thanks for your help!
Hello! No need to stress too much about awards and competitions. While they can indeed add to your application and showcase your achievements, they are not the sole determining factor in admissions. Colleges are looking for well-rounded applicants who can contribute to their communities in various ways.
It's great that you're involved in a variety of extracurriculars, as it demonstrates your diverse interests and commitment to pursuits outside of academics. What really matters is the depth of your involvement, and the impact you've had within the activity, not necessarily the accolades.
For example, my child was involved in a community service organization during high school, and although they didn't win any awards, they were able to discuss the projects they spearheaded which positively impacted the local community. This turned out to be a significant part of their application and ultimately helped them earn a spot at their dream school.
So, focus on the value and impact you bring to your extracurricular activities and don't worry too much about the awards. Best of luck with your applications!
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