How to Describe National Honor Society on the Common App: A Guide for the Perplexed
Okay, so you’re staring at the Common App, and you’ve got this nagging question: “Where on earth do I put National Honor Society?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This is a question that has sent countless students spiraling into existential crises, wondering if they’ve been living their lives wrong.
Just breathe, friend. It’s not as complicated as it seems.
Think of the National Honor Society (NHS) as a multi-faceted gem. It’s shiny and sparkly, but how you showcase it depends on your individual story.
Let’s break it down:
The Big “A” & The Big “H”: Activities vs. Honors
Common App is a bit of a stickler for categories, and those categories are Activities and Honors. Here’s the deal:
- Activities: Your time spent actively engaging in things like clubs, sports, volunteering, or even working a part-time job. These are things you do.
- Honors: Your achievements, accolades, and recognition for things like academic excellence, awards, or competitions. These are things you are awarded.
So where does NHS fit in?
Well, it’s a bit of a gray area. It’s an honor, but it’s also an activity. You’re recognized for your achievements, but you also actively participate in the society.
The key is to think about your involvement. Did you just get inducted and wear a fancy sash for a day? Then it might be better suited as an honor. Did you hold a leadership position, organize events, or dedicate significant time to service projects? Then you’re likely looking at the Activities section.
The Common App Conundrum: A Case Study
Let’s say you were the Vice President of your school’s NHS chapter, spearheaded a community service project that cleaned up a local park, and organized fundraisers for a local charity.
Here’s a possible approach:
- Activities: You would list “NHS” as an activity, and then in the “Additional Information” section, you could elaborate on your leadership role, the projects you spearheaded, and how those experiences impacted you. Remember, the Common App is limited on space, so let your activities speak for themselves.
- Honors: If you have limited space, you could list “NHS” as an honor, but only if you have other impressive honors that you want to showcase.
Here are some additional tips:
- Prioritize: You only have a limited amount of space on the Common App, so be strategic. Highlight your most impressive achievements and experiences.
- Be Specific: Don’t just say “NHS.” Give context. Describe your role, the impact you made, and what you learned. Show, don’t just tell!
- Don’t Overthink It: As long as you’re honest and authentic, admissions officers will appreciate your efforts.
Remember the Common App is a way to showcase your personality and unique talents. It’s not just about listing accolades; it’s about telling your story.
The NHS: More Than Just a Fancy Title
The National Honor Society is about much more than a fancy badge or a line on your application. It’s a commitment to excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. It’s a community of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to making a difference.
So when you describe your involvement in NHS, think about the impact you’ve made, the lessons you’ve learned, and the values that have shaped you. Don’t just list it as an honor or an activity; bring it to life.
Let your passion and dedication shine through!
Need more help?
Reach out to us at JobLoving. We’re here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of the Common App and tell your story in a way that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Just remember, you’ve got this!
And for those of you who are wondering why the Common App is so complicated, we’re with you. The only thing more confusing than the Common App is why we still pay for college in the first place.
But hey, at least we’ve got the NHS to keep us company on this wild ride.