A few words of advice on extracurricular involvement

“What extracurricular activities look good on a college application?” We hear this question often—many times from students who have come to view the college application process as an exercise in spin, rather than an opportunity to exhibit passion. While the temptation to “amass” activities is strong, especially given the competitive nature of college admissions, it’s important to realize that superficiality will not get you far in life, and it certainly won’t help you get into the college of your choice. College admission officers are interested in meaningful engagement, not perfunctory participation, and are smart enough and experienced enough to distinguish between the two. That being said, here are a few rules to abide by as you plan your extracurricular involvement:

Keep it real. Every admissions season, colleges strive to admit a diverse community of students with a wide range of talents and interests. If you’re not interested in sports, student council, or some other typical extracurricular activity, don’t worry about it. Colleges are just as intrigued by the student filmmaker or poetry club founder as they are by the power forward or student body president. Provided that you demonstrate a deep and consistent commitment, admissions officers will take notice, whatever the activity.

Focus on depth, not breadth. Students who assume leadership roles and participate extensively (10-20 hours per week) in one or two pursuits will always outshine comparable applicants who merely dabble in several or more activities. If you want to have an impact, find your niche, and improve your college admissions prospects in the process, forget the “laundry list” and commit to the wholehearted following of your true extracurricular interests.

Take advantage of the summer. Do you want to show colleges that you are serious about your extracurricular pursuits? Then use your summer to secure an internship, take a class, or enroll in a camp that will allow you to further explore your interests outside the classroom. There is no better way to impress an admissions rep than to forego those lazy summer days and use your vacation to better yourself.

Get a job. A job, perhaps more than anything else, demonstrates to an admissions committee that you are mature, practical, and ready to take on the responsibilities associated with adulthood. If you can get a job in your area of interest, great; if you can’t, get one anyway. Most of us, at one time or another, have had to find alternative, less attractive ways to fund the pursuit of our passions. Show colleges that you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty.

All in all, extracurricular life is not about building a resume (you’ll have plenty of time to do that later); it’s about finding yourself and your true calling. Follow your heart, strive for authenticity, and college will take care of itself.