Should You Say You Intend to Participate in a Similar Activity in College? (Common App Decoder Ring)
Let’s face it, the Common App is like a giant, bureaucratic monster that demands your every thought and desire. It asks you about your GPA, your extracurriculars, your life story, and then, it throws in the curveball: “Do you intend to participate in a similar activity in college?”
The answer? It’s not as simple as a “yes” or “no”.
Think of it this way: The Common App is like a nosy neighbor who’s always peering over the fence. They want to know if you’re a “go-getter” who’s going to make their college look good, or if you’re just gonna sit around and eat ramen (although, who doesn’t love a good ramen bowl?).
So, should you check “yes” for all your activities?Absolutely not.
Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. You don’t want to exhaust yourself by saying “yes” to every single activity, especially if you don’t genuinely intend to pursue them in college.
Why? Because a long list of “yeses” can look awfully suspicious. It’s like saying you’re a world-renowned pianist, a professional athlete, and a Nobel Prize-winning scientist—all at the same time. It’s just not believable.
Think about it this way:
- If you’re a passionate violinist who’s been playing since you were five, it’s a safe bet you’ll continue playing in college. You can confidently check “yes” for that activity.
- But if you’re a casual tennis player who only plays a couple of times a year, do you really see yourself joining a college tennis team? Maybe not. So, it’s okay to check “no” for this activity.
The key is to be honest with yourself. Don’t try to impress the admissions committee with a list of activities you have no intention of pursuing. They’re not stupid. They can spot a fake “yes” from a mile away.
But what about the Common App’s insistence on listing ten activities?
Let’s be real, you don’t have to fill out all ten.
Unless you’re a walking, talking resume of accomplishments, it’s perfectly fine to leave some spaces blank.
Think about it:
- If you’ve spent years volunteering at a local animal shelter, or you’ve been a dedicated member of your school’s debate team, you’ve got some serious bragging rights. These activities deserve a spot on your Common App.
- But if you’ve just dabbled in a few activities here and there, it’s okay to focus on the ones that truly matter. Let’s be honest, even the most accomplished student can’t be good at everything.
How do you choose which activities to highlight?
Simple: Focus on the activities that align with your interests and goals.
For example, if you’re passionate about environmentalism, you might highlight your volunteer work at a local nature preserve instead of listing your participation in the school’s chess club.
Speaking of goals, the Common App also asks about your intended degree.
Don’t get intimidated by the choices.
- Think about your future plans. Do you see yourself pursuing a two-year degree at a community college? Then choose “Associate’s.”
- Planning on a four-year degree at a university? Then “Bachelor’s” is your go-to.
- Dreaming of a master’s degree, law school, or medical school? Select the corresponding degree.
Remember, the Common App is just one piece of the puzzle.
It’s not the be-all and end-all of your college applications.
Focus on showcasing your genuine strengths and passions. Let your personality shine through, and don’t be afraid to be yourself.
And hey, if you’re still feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your counselor or a trusted advisor.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Should you apply through the Common App or directly to the college?
Generally speaking, the Common App is your best friend.
Why? Because it’s widely used across the country, making the application process easier and more efficient.
However, some colleges offer their own application portals.
If you’re applying to a college with multiple application options, it’s best to reach out directly to the school and ask about their preferences.
They might prefer their own application, or they might be perfectly happy with the Common App.
But remember, even the most prestigious colleges are just institutions. They’re not some mythical creatures that can only be accessed through secret rituals.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
And don’t be afraid to be yourself.
The best college for you is the one that fits your personality, your interests, and your goals.
So, go out there, conquer the Common App, and find your perfect match.
And remember, if you need any further help navigating the treacherous waters of college applications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JobLoving. We’re here to help you find your dream college, one application at a time.