Can You Put Hobbies on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: Yes, But It’s More Complicated Than That)
So, you’re staring at the Common App, feeling like you’re in a game of Tetris, trying to fit all your awesome extracurriculars into those tiny boxes. You’ve got your clubs, your sports, maybe even a few volunteer gigs. But what about your hobbies? Can you really put those on there? Does your love of knitting count as an “activity”?
Well, grab a comfy chair, grab a cup of something caffeinated (or a glass of wine, I’m not judging), and let’s dive into the exciting world of the Common App activities section.
The Short Answer:
Yes, you can absolutely put hobbies on your Common App. Think of it as a chance to showcase your personality, passions, and how you spend your time outside of school.
The Long Answer:
It’s not as simple as just throwing “knitting” or “watching Netflix” (though who wouldn’t want to see a college application with “Netflix Connoisseur” as an activity?) on the Common App. Colleges want to see how you’ve engaged with your hobbies, how they’ve shaped you, and how they demonstrate your values and interests.
Here’s the breakdown:
Hobbies vs. Extracurriculars: A Fine Line
The Common App defines extracurriculars as “activities may include arts, athletics, clubs, employment, personal commitments, and other pursuits.” So, technically, hobbies fit the bill. But there’s a distinction:
- Extracurriculars usually involve some sort of organized structure (like a club, team, or group). They often have meetings, events, or competitions.
- Hobbies can be more solo pursuits. You might read voraciously, paint in your free time, or write poetry for fun.
How to Make Your Hobbies Shine on the Common App
- Make Them Meaningful: It’s not enough to just say you like to read. Show how reading has impacted you. Maybe you’ve started a book club, volunteered at a library, or written book reviews for a blog.
- Highlight Your Skills: Do you have a knack for photography? Showcase your work in a portfolio. Got a passion for coding? Build a website or contribute to open-source projects.
- Demonstrate Commitment: Think about how your hobby shows dedication and persistence. Have you practiced a musical instrument for years? Have you taken classes to improve your skills? Have you entered competitions or exhibitions?
- Show Your Growth: How has your hobby helped you develop new skills or perspectives? Maybe it’s taught you discipline, teamwork, or problem-solving.
- Don’t Overdo It: While you can mention multiple hobbies, remember quality over quantity. Choose a few that you’re truly passionate about and can write about in detail.
Some Hobby Examples (And How to Make Them Shine)
- Gaming: Don’t just say you’re a gamer. Maybe you’ve joined a gaming community, competed in tournaments, or even designed your own mods.
- Writing: Showcase your writing skills by sharing your published work (blog posts, short stories, even fanfiction!).
- Cooking: Have you started a food blog? Created a recipe book? Volunteered at a food bank?
- Music: Even if you haven’t performed in a band, you might have taken lessons, participated in a choir, or joined a music appreciation club.
Remember, It’s a Balancing Act
The Common App activities section is about demonstrating your well-roundedness and commitment. Don’t just list your hobbies, tell a story about how they have shaped you and your journey.
Finally, a Word of Caution
Don’t be afraid to be unique. Colleges want to see students who are passionate and engaged, not just a list of “conventional” activities. Let your personality shine through!
Need More Help?
If you’re still scratching your head about how to showcase your hobbies on the Common App, don’t worry! We’re here to help! Join the JobLoving community where you can connect with expert advisors, browse helpful resources, and get personalized guidance on your college application journey.
Remember, your hobbies are a part of who you are, so don’t be afraid to let them shine!