Selecting Extracurricular Activities

Students can strengthen college applications by exploring a couple of activities and sticking with them through high school — and they will develop skills and interests that may last a lifetime. Selecting extracurricular activities helps to strengthen a student’s high school experience.

1. Choose depth over breadth.
Admission officers are more likely to consider an applicant who is deeply and passionately committed to a specific activity, rather than one who is superficially involved in multiple activities. Nanci Tessier, vice president for enrollment management at the University of Richmond, explains, “We’re looking for a commitment to and a passion for an activity outside of the academic setting. We’re looking for depth rather than breadth.”

2. Consider interests and abilities.
Students should pursue activities that complement and enhance their specific interests and skills. A student who is a talented writer should consider working on the school newspaper or yearbook. Dorothy Coppock, a former counselor at the Evanston Township High School in Illinois, reassures her students that a passion unrelated to school counts, too: “An avid equestrian or ice-skater does not need to add on a school activity to look well-rounded.”

3. Seek a balance.
Achieving a balance between academics and extracurricular activities can be a challenge for students. Participating in too many activities can take away from study time. It can also lead to burnout and exhaustion.

4. Count working and volunteering.
The commitment to working at a job or volunteering reveals certain personality characteristics that appeal to admission officers. It usually works in an applicant’s favor to show a significant level of employment or community service while maintaining academic excellence.

5. Use internships to develop interests.
Internships can help students discover activities they feel passionate about. Work experience assists in identifying career interests and goals. It provides an opportunity to apply classroom learning to the real world. It’s also a great way to earn money for college.

6. Realize that inclusion in most lists and publications is not significant.
Colleges are interested in actual achievements. Help students recognize that colleges do not give much weight to being listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students or other “name only” accomplishments.