Extra Curricular Activities: What Should I Consider?

Hey everyone, I've been trying to strategize about what extracurricular activities I should get involved in before my senior year. I know it's important to show commitment and leadership, but I'm a bit overwhelmed with all the options. Any advice on how to choose or how to balance commitment without overloading my schedule?

It's terrific to see that you're being thoughtful about your extracurricular involvements. It's indeed important to select activities that truly resonate with you and where you see the potential for growth. Here are a few factors to consider.

1. Interest and Passion: While strategic activity selection can enhance your college application, it's not wise to do something just because it seems impressive. You're most likely to excel and take on leadership roles in activities you genuinely care about.

2. Quality Over Quantity: While 8-10 extracurriculars is the range successful applicants at top colleges have, the focus is often on quality and commitment rather than sheer quantity. Deep involvement is valued more than superficial involvement in too many activities.

3. Balance: Overcommitment can lead to burnout, jeopardizing your performance in all areas. Maintain a balance between STEM, humanities, and arts-focused activities. Make sure you also leave some time for relaxation and self-care.

4. Potential for Progression: Colleges love to see progression in responsibilities within an activity over time. Will the activity afford you opportunities for advancement and leadership?

5. Longevity: A longer commitment to an activity shows that you are consistent and dedicated. Thus, it's usually more beneficial to stick with an activity for several years as opposed to switching every few months.

6. Spike: A 'spike' is an area where you have substantial depth and achievement. Top colleges, instead of seeking well-rounded students, look for students with a 'spike.' So if you can, try focusing deep into one field of interest and excel in it.

7. Tiers: Some extracurricular activities are deemed more impressive than others, based on their selectivity and level of recognition. Navigate towards activities that are in higher tiers whenever you can.

And as for structuring your schedule, it can be helpful to create a weekly time block schedule where you plot out when you'll dedicate time to each activity. Remember, it's okay to not do an activity every day and break it up over the week. It's all about managing your time wisely and not overloading so you can still maintain your grades, wellbeing, and also enjoy what you're doing!