The Common App’s Activities Section: Your Chance to Shine (Or Crash and Burn)
So, you’ve finally decided to conquer the beast that is the Common App. You’ve painstakingly crafted your essays, meticulously filled out your academic information, and now you’re staring down the dreaded “Activities” section. Let’s be honest, this section is like trying to fit your entire personality into a tiny, cramped closet. But fear not, my friend! This blog post is your key to unlocking the secrets of the Common App’s Activities section.
The Activities Section: Your Extracurricular Resume
Think of the Activities section as your extracurricular resume. It’s your chance to show colleges that you’re a well-rounded individual who doesn’t just spend their time memorizing AP Chem formulas (though, kudos to you for that, by the way!). This section gives you a platform to showcase your passions, your leadership skills, and your commitment to making the world a slightly better place – or at least, a slightly more fun one.
The Activities Section: A Masterclass in Concise Storytelling
But here’s the catch: you’ve got a limited amount of space to make a big impression. You can only list a maximum of ten activities, and you have a mere 150 characters to describe each one. It’s like trying to tell a compelling story in a tweet! But don’t despair – with a little creativity and strategic word choice, you can make those 150 characters sing.
How to Craft a Killer Activity Description
Follow these steps, and your Activities section will be the envy of your peers (and maybe even your college counselor):
- Start with a Strong Title: The first box is for the name of the activity and your role. Think of this as your headline. Keep it clear, concise, and relevant. For example, instead of “Math Club,” try something like “Vice President, Math Club.”
- Show, Don’t Tell: This is your chance to showcase your impact. Don’t just list your responsibilities; quantify your accomplishments. For example, instead of “Organized club events,” try “Organized 5 club events, increasing membership by 20%.”
- Use Active Verbs: Active verbs make your descriptions come alive. Instead of “I was responsible for,” try “Led team to…” or “Organized and implemented…”
- Embrace the Power of Lists: To save space, use bullet points or short phrases. No need for complete sentences. Think of it as your personal, highly-edited highlight reel.
- Aim for Variety: Showcase your diverse interests. Don’t just list all the clubs you joined; include hobbies, volunteer work, or even a personal project that you’re passionate about.
- Avoid Hyperbole: While you want to paint a positive picture, don’t exaggerate. Be honest and authentic. Colleges can sniff out a fake from a mile away (trust me, they’ve seen it all).
Extracurricular Awards: The Honors Section
The Honors section is your chance to brag a little (in a good way, of course!). This section allows you to list any awards, scholarships, or recognitions you’ve received in the past four years. It’s a great way to highlight any achievements that might not fit into the Activities section. Think of it as a mini-trophy cabinet for your academic and extracurricular prowess.
Extracurricular Activities for Sports Enthusiasts: Be Specific
Let’s address the elephant in the room: sports! The Activities section is where you showcase your athletic prowess, but be specific. Don’t just say “Varsity Soccer Team”; provide details about your role, your achievements, and your commitment to the sport. For example, you could write “Varsity Soccer Team, Captain; Led team to a state championship victory.”
Tips for Making Your Activities List Absolutely Awesome
Here are some extra tips to help you create an Activities section that truly shines:
- Keep Track of Everything: Don’t wait until the last minute to start compiling your activities. Start tracking your extracurricular involvement as early as possible (ideally, from freshman year). Use a spreadsheet, a notebook, or even a good old-fashioned sticky note.
- Organize and Rank: Once you have a comprehensive list, rank your activities based on your level of involvement, leadership, and impact. This will help you narrow down your choices for the Activities section.
- Track Your Time Commitment: For each activity, note the amount of time you dedicated to it. This will help you showcase the depth and breadth of your involvement.
- Seek Feedback: Get feedback from trusted sources like teachers, counselors, or mentors. They can provide valuable insights and help you craft compelling descriptions.
The Activities Section: Your Personal Success Story
The Activities section is more than just a list of activities; it’s your chance to tell a story about your growth, your passions, and your contributions to your community. Use it wisely to showcase your best self, and let your personality shine through!
Need More Help?
If you’re still scratching your head or feel lost in the Activities section jungle, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Connect with the JobLoving community and get personalized guidance from experienced college application experts! They can help you craft an Activities section that’s as impressive as your academic record.