Do Personal Projects Count as Activities on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: They Totally Do!)
You’re staring at the Common App, your cursor blinking like a judgmental owl. Your brain is a chaotic mess of SAT scores, GPA anxieties, and the looming question: “Do personal projects count as activities on the Common App?”
Fear not, fellow applicant! This is a question that plagues many a high schooler, but the answer is surprisingly simple: YES!
But hold on, let’s unpack this a little bit. It’s not as simple as throwing in a “built a birdhouse” or “taught myself to juggle” and calling it a day. Those definitely could count, but they need to be more than just hobbies. They need to have some oomph, some substance, some tangible impact, just like those extracurricular activities you’ve been sweating over.
Think of it this way: the Common App wants to see what makes you tick. They want to understand what drives you to go beyond the classroom and make things happen. Your personal projects are a fantastic way to showcase that.
Beyond the “Extra” – Personal Projects as Goldmines
Let’s be real, sometimes “extracurriculars” can feel a bit… well, extra. You’re juggling school, your social life, and maybe even a part-time job. Finding time for a club that only meets once a month can be a struggle.
Enter, stage left: personal projects. These are your own unique creations, driven by your passions, and often demonstrating skills and dedication that might not be fully captured in a traditional club setting.
Think about it:
- The budding photographer who spends their weekends capturing the beauty of their city.
- The aspiring programmer who builds an app for a local community.
- The budding entrepreneur who starts a small business selling handmade jewelry.
- The aspiring musician who writes and produces their own music.
These are all amazing examples of personal projects that can shine brightly on your Common App. They show initiative, dedication, and a willingness to go above and beyond.
How to Make Your Projects Stand Out:
Now, let’s talk about how to make your personal projects truly pop on your Common App.
1. Choose projects that reflect your passions: Don’t just pick something random because you think it’ll look good. Go with something that genuinely excites you. It’ll show in your application, trust me.
2. Make it meaningful: Think about the impact of your project. Did it help others? Did it solve a problem? Did it teach you valuable skills? The more you can connect your project to a larger purpose, the more impactful it will be.
3. Go the extra mile: Don’t just “check the box” on your project. Go above and beyond. Did you publish your music online? Did you present your app at a local tech event? Did you donate your handmade jewelry to a charity? These extra efforts show initiative and commitment.
4. Tell a compelling story: When you describe your project on the Common App, don’t just list the facts. Tell a story. Why did you choose this project? What challenges did you face? What did you learn? How did it impact you? Use this space to connect with the admissions committee and showcase your personality and drive.
5. Don’t be afraid to be unique: You don’t have to have a traditional extracurricular activity to succeed. If you have a passion for something unique, embrace it! Maybe you’re a competitive pickleball player, or you’re a master at origami. Whatever it is, own it and showcase your talent.
Personal Projects on Your Resume:
Hey, those personal projects are going to be awesome on your resume too!
- Demonstrate relevant skills: Did your project involve coding, design, writing, or research? These are all transferable skills that employers look for.
- Showcase your initiative: Personal projects show employers that you’re a self-starter who isn’t afraid to take on new challenges.
- Boost your confidence: Completing a personal project can be a real confidence booster, and it’s something you can talk about with employers.
The Bottom Line:
Personal projects are a powerful tool in your college application arsenal. They’re a chance to showcase your passions, skills, and drive. Treat them with the same care and attention as you would any other extracurricular activity.
So, go forth and create! Let your passions shine, and let your personal projects speak volumes about who you are and what you’re capable of.
Need more help?
If you’re still unsure about how to best showcase your personal projects, or if you’re just feeling overwhelmed by the college application process, don’t hesitate to connect with us at JobLoving. We’re here to help!