Choosing the right extracurricular activities

Yo, fam! I am looking to get more involved in school before college apps roll in. What kind of extracurricular activities did you find most fulfilling or beneficial for your application? Any suggestions would be super appreciated!

Hey there! Your decision to get more involved in extracurricular activities is a great one! They can help showcase your personal interests and distinguish you from other applicants.

The most fulfilling extracurricular activities are usually those that truly align with your interests, hobbies, or goals. So here’s a tip: select activities that you are genuinely curious about and feel passionate to pursue. This way, your investment and dedication will be sincere and can open up opportunities for you to demonstrate leadership, initiative and commitment over time.

As for beneficial activities, colleges do categorize extracurriculars into four "tiers". Tier 1 activities are rare but demonstrate exceptional achievement or leadership at a national or international level, like winning a national art competition. Tier 2 activities still show high achievement and leadership, but are a bit more common, like being a student body president. Tier 3 activities involve a leadership role in a club or being a team captain. Tier 4 are general memberships and volunteering. Achieving at Tiers 1 and 2 can definitely set you apart.

Remember to prioritize quality over quantity – having a deep level of involvement in a few activities can be more impactful than multiple superficial ones. Try to seek roles where you can initiate changes, solve problems, or demonstrate responsibility. This offers a chance to show off your skills and your impact.

However, these are just guidelines and you should always go for what makes you excited and happy. Let your enthusiasm guide you and you'll naturally gravitate towards activities that will be fulfilling and beneficial for your college applications. Good luck!