Can You Sneak a Peek into Your Future on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
So, you’re sitting there, staring at the Common App’s Activities section, and your brain is screaming, “But what about my future plans?!” You’ve got dreams bigger than a college dorm room, and you’re dying to tell the admissions committee about your amazing summer internship at NASA (that you haven’t even gotten yet).
The Short Answer: You Can’t Put Future Activities on the Common App
Let’s be brutally honest, the Common App isn’t a crystal ball. It’s a platform for showcasing your accomplishments, not your aspirations. So, those plans for starting your own tech company? Hold off on listing it.
Why’s the Common App So Strict?
Think of it this way: Colleges are looking for evidence of your past achievements, not your potential. They want to see that you’ve already proven yourself through your extracurriculars and academic record. They want to know if you’re a go-getter, not a “hopeful-to-be-a-go-getter.”
But What About Future Activities?
Now, before you start panicking about your dream internship at NASA being buried under the weight of ‘present-tense’ achievements, there’s a little loophole.
Here’s the Trick: Emphasize Your ‘Present’ Activities with a Future Spin
Think about it! If you’re in the middle of a project, club, or volunteer opportunity, you can absolutely highlight its potential impact and future plans. For example:
- Current Activity: “President of the Robotics Club, leading a team of 15 students in designing and building a robot for the national competition.”
- Future Spin: “Our team is committed to tackling real-world challenges through robotics, and I’m excited about the potential to continue our work in the field of [insert specific area of robotics].”
The “Future” is in Your “Present”
This approach allows you to showcase your current involvement while subtly hinting at your future aspirations. Colleges want to see that you’re driven and committed to something beyond just the present, even if that commitment is still unfolding.
The “Waitlist” Exception (Because College Admissions is Full of Exceptions)
If you get waitlisted by your dream college, don’t despair! It’s a golden opportunity to update your application. The “Letter of Continued Interest” (LOCI) is your chance to shine a light on any new achievements or experiences that have happened since you submitted your application. You can mention that incredible summer internship at NASA, because you’ve got the receipts.
Don’t Get Carried Away
Remember, the LOCI is about demonstrating your continued passion for the college, not cramming in every new experience you’ve had since submitting your application. Stick to relevant accomplishments that directly connect to your academic and career goals.
The Common App Activities Section: A Balancing Act
The Activities section of the Common App is a balancing act between showcasing your achievements and providing a glimpse into your future. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted description that highlights both your past involvement and your future aspirations.
Bonus Tip: Get Creative with Your Activity Descriptions
Think beyond the standard bullet points. Use vivid language, engage your reader, and tell a story. For example, instead of writing “Member of the Debate Team,” write “Spent countless hours dissecting arguments and crafting persuasive speeches, honing my critical thinking skills and finding my voice in the world of debate.”
Remember, College Admissions is a Game of First Impressions
The Common App is your opportunity to make a strong first impression. Showcase your achievements, highlight your passions, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.
Final Thoughts
The Common App is a platform for showcasing your strengths and aspirations. While you can’t predict the future, you can certainly paint a vivid picture of your past accomplishments and future potential. Remember, colleges are looking for students who are driven, engaged, and committed to making a difference in the world. So go out there, make your mark, and let your activities speak volumes about the amazing person you are.
Need More Help?
If you’re still struggling to navigate the complexities of the Common App or need personalized guidance on crafting your activities list, connect with us at JobLoving. We’re here to help you stand out in a sea of applications and get you one step closer to your dream college.