Describing Extracurriculars on College Applications

Hey everybody! So I'm starting to work on my college applications and I'm unsure about how to effectively describe my extracurricular activities. What are some tips for making my application stand out while showcasing my commitment to these activities?

Hi there! Describing your extracurricular activities effectively is crucial as it helps the admissions officers understand your involvement, commitment, and the impact you've made in each activity. Here are some tips to make your application stand out:

1. Use action verbs: Start each description with a strong action verb to demonstrate your involvement and the extent of your impact (e.g., "Coordinated," "Led," "Organized," "Founded," "Initiated").

2. Be specific and concise: Admissions officers go through numerous applications, so they will appreciate brevity. Use limited space wisely by providing specific and concise details about your role and achievements without overwhelming them with too much information.

3. Highlight leadership and initiative: If you held a leadership role in an activity or took the initiative to start something new, make sure to emphasize that in your description. Colleges value students who show leadership potential and a willingness to take risks.

4. Quantify your impact when possible: If you can quantify your impact on an activity, it will help paint a clearer picture for the admissions officers. For example, "Raised $5,000 as treasurer for the school's drama club," or "Tutored 10 students in math, raising their grades by an average of one letter grade."

5. Explain the significance: If the activity is unique or has a personal significance to you, briefly explain its importance in your life. This will provide context for the admissions officers and help them understand why the activity matters to you.

6. Use consistent formatting: Make sure to use the same formatting throughout your descriptions for a polished and cohesive appearance. This includes using a consistent tense, capitalization, and punctuation.

7. Prioritize activities: List your extracurriculars in order of importance, with your most significant and highly-involved activities at the top. This will make it easier for admissions officers to identify your key interests and strengths.

Remember, the goal is to convey the depth of your involvement, your passion for the activity, and the outcomes of your efforts. By focusing on these tips, you'll be able to showcase your dedication to your extracurricular activities, making your application more impressive and engaging. Good luck!