Can You Put Certifications on the Common App? (Spoiler: It’s Tricky)
Let’s be real, applying to college is like trying to navigate a minefield of confusing jargon and cryptic instructions. And when it comes to the Common App, the question of “can I put certifications on here?” often pops up like a mischievous gremlin. So, can you?
The Short Answer: It depends!
The Long Answer: The Common App is a bit of a stickler when it comes to certifications. They’re not exactly thrilled with every single certificate you’ve ever gotten. Think of it like this: The Common App is a picky eater, and only wants the certifications that are truly impressive. Let’s break down the options, shall we?
1. The “Honors” Section: A Fancy Dress-Up For Your Certifications
The “Honors” section of the Common App is where you can flaunt your achievements, like a shimmering trophy shelf. This is where certifications can find a home, if they’re actually considered honors.
- Think: Did you get a certificate for completing a program that was recognized by a prestigious organization? Did you win a national competition that awarded you a certificate? Or, did you get a certificate for taking an online course that teaches you how to fold a perfect origami crane?
If the answer is the first two, you’re in the clear! Go ahead and list that certification in your “Honors” section. But if it’s the third option, maybe save it for a personal anecdote in your essay or leave it out entirely.
2. The “Activities” Section: A Place for Your Extra-Curricular Shenanigans
The “Activities” section is where you can showcase your involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and, drumroll please… some certifications.
- Think: Did you complete a program or course that taught you valuable skills or contributed to your overall development? Did you learn a new language, coding, or a software program?
If the answer is yes, you can potentially list it in your “Activities” section. But, remember, this section is limited, so choose wisely. Focus on the certifications that are most relevant to your academic and career goals.
3. The “Extracurricular Honors” Conundrum: When Is An Award Not An Award?
The Common App likes its categories nice and tidy. They’ve got “Honors” and “Activities,” but what about those fancy certificates you got from your extracurricular activities?
- Think: Did you receive a certificate for winning a debate championship or a regional art competition?
This is where the line gets blurry. The Common App doesn’t explicitly state that extracurricular awards must be listed under “Honors.” However, it’s generally considered a good practice to include them in the “Activities” section with a brief description of your achievement.
4. The “Academics” Section: A No-Go Zone for Most Certifications
The “Academics” section is for your official academic achievements, like your GPA, class rank, and AP courses. Certifications, unless they’re official college credits, don’t belong in this section.
5. The “Other” Section: A Catch-All For Everything Else
If you’ve got a certification that doesn’t fit neatly into any of the above categories, you can always try the “Other” section. This is a bit of a wildcard, so use it with caution.
6. The “Don’t Overdo It” Rule: Quality Over Quantity
The Common App is about showcasing your best self, not just listing every single certification you’ve ever received. Choose the certifications that are the most relevant, valuable, and impressive.
7. The “Description” Trick: Making Your Certifications Shine
The Common App allows you to add a short description for your activities and honors. This is your chance to highlight the most important details about your certifications, like the skills you learned, the impact they had on your development, and any relevant achievements.
8. The “Show, Don’t Tell” Approach: Let Your Certifications Speak for Themselves
Don’t just list your certifications. Use your essays, supplements, and even your activities descriptions to showcase how your certifications have shaped you. For example, if you got a certificate in web development, discuss a project you completed using those skills or how it helped you learn about your future career aspirations.
9. The “Don’t Be Afraid to Ask” Rule: Consult Your Guidance Counselor
If you’re still unsure about where to list your certifications, don’t hesitate to ask your guidance counselor for advice. They’re your allies in the college application process and can offer valuable insights specific to your situation.
A Word of Caution: Not All Certifications Are Created Equal
While certifications can be great additions to your Common App, remember that some might be more valuable than others. For example, a certification from a renowned organization or a program that aligns with your future career goals will likely carry more weight than a basic completion certificate from a random online course.
The Bottom Line: Choose Wisely, Showcase Your Best, and Don’t Forget to Be Yourself
The Common App is a platform for you to share your unique story and achievements. Use your certifications strategically to highlight your skills, interests, and potential. And remember, the key to a successful application is authenticity. Let your genuine passion and accomplishments shine through!
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the maze of Common App certifications, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Join the JobLoving community for more tips, advice, and support. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process and find your perfect fit.