Conquering the Common App: How to Write About Your Veteran Club Like a Pro
So, you’re a veteran, you’ve got a killer resume, and you’re ready to tackle the Common App. But wait, there’s a section dedicated to “Activities” and you’re staring at it like a deer in headlights. “How do I even begin to describe my veteran club on this thing?” you ask, a chill running down your spine.
Fear not, comrade! We’re here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of the Common App, specifically when it comes to showcasing your time in a veteran club. It’s time to turn that blank space into a testament to your leadership, dedication, and the invaluable experiences you’ve gained.
Think Beyond the Basics: Your Veteran Club isn’t just a Club
The Common App wants to know about you, not a generic description of your club. Remember, colleges are looking for individuals who can contribute to their vibrant campus communities. So, ditch the generic “We met once a month and talked about stuff” approach. Instead, focus on:
1. Leadership: Did you spearhead a fundraising project for a veteran charity? Did you organize a mentorship program for new veterans? Highlight the leadership roles you held and the impact you made.
2. Initiatives You Ran: Don’t just say you were “involved.” Dig deep and describe specific projects or events you spearheaded. Did you organize a successful veteran employment fair? Did you lead a team in planning a community service project? Concrete examples speak volumes.
3. Contributions You Made: Think about the tangible results of your efforts. How did your involvement benefit the club, its members, or the broader community? Did you increase membership, raise funds, or advocate for a specific cause? Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
4. Tell a Story, Not a Resume: The Common App is your chance to paint a picture of yourself. Use vivid language and anecdotes to bring your experiences to life. Describe the challenges you faced, the lessons you learned, and the impact your contributions had. Show, don’t tell.
Example:
Instead of: “I was a member of the Veteran’s Club where we supported veterans transitioning back to civilian life.”
Try this:
“As a member of the Veterans’ Club, I spearheaded our ‘Back to Basics’ program, providing vocational training and job placement assistance to veterans struggling to re-enter the workforce. Leading a team of volunteers, we organized workshops, partnered with local businesses, and helped over 20 veterans secure meaningful employment. Witnessing their success was incredibly rewarding and solidified my commitment to serving the veteran community.”
Using the Right Language:
1. Speak Their Language: Colleges want to understand your experiences, not decipher military jargon. Keep your language clear and concise, avoiding specialized acronyms.
2. Show, Don’t Tell: Use action verbs and specific details to paint a picture of your involvement. Instead of saying “I was a leader,” describe the specific leadership roles you held and the actions you took.
3. Focus on Impact: Highlight the tangible results of your efforts. How did your contributions benefit the club, its members, or the broader community? Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
4. Be Honest and Authentic: Don’t embellish your experiences. Colleges can see through fake stories. Instead, focus on the genuine impact you made and the lessons you learned.
5. Make it Personal: The Common App is about you! Use your voice and let your personality shine through.
The Common App Isn’t a Battlefield, It’s a Chance to Shine:
Remember, the Common App is not about proving your worth as a veteran. It’s about showcasing your potential as a student and a contributing member of a college community. Use your veteran experience as a powerful tool to demonstrate your leadership, dedication, and resilience.
Need Some Extra Help Navigating the Common App?
If you need further guidance on crafting your Common App essays or navigating the application process, reach out to JobLoving! We’re a community of veterans, career professionals, and educators dedicated to supporting veterans in their educational journeys. We’re here to help you unlock your full potential and achieve your academic goals.