Can You Put Thespian Society on the Honors Common App? (Spoiler Alert: You Totally Can!)
The Common App, that dreaded beast of college applications, can make even the most confident student question their life choices. But fear not, young thespian! You’ve stumbled upon the ultimate guide to navigating the “Honors” section, specifically tailored to those who’ve strutted their stuff on stage with The International Thespian Society (ITS).
Can You Put Thespian Society on the Honors Common App?
Yes, you absolutely can! Thespian Society, just like the National Honor Society (NHS), is a recognized honor society. It demonstrates your commitment to the arts, dedication to your craft, and academic achievement. Think of it as a badge of honor for those who live, breathe, and dream in dramatic monologues.
But Hold Your Horses!
Before you go throwing “ITS Member” onto the Common App like an over-the-top stage entrance, let’s break down the dos and don’ts. Here’s the deal:
1. The “Honors” Section Isn’t Just for Academics
The Common App isn’t a rigid academic robot. They understand that life is a stage, and you’ve got a whole repertoire of achievements beyond the classroom. The key is to showcase your achievements in a way that shines a light on your dedication and passions.
2. Think of Honors as “Distinctions”
The Common App’s “Honors” section isn’t just for straight-A students and Presidential Scholars (though those are definitely welcome). It’s about distinctions that set you apart. Think of it like a “best of” reel, highlighting your accomplishments. So, yes, that National Merit Scholarship is a good one, but so is your ITS membership!
3. “Thespian Society” vs. “Extracurricular Activity”
You might be thinking, “But I already have my extracurriculars! Do I have to list it twice?” That’s a great question, and the answer is: You can choose!
- Honors: If you want to highlight your achievement in a way that emphasizes your dedication to the performing arts and academic excellence, listing it in the “Honors” section is a good move. It shows that you’re not just a performer; you’re a well-rounded individual with a commitment to excellence.
- Extracurricular Activity: If you want to focus on the specific activities and performances you’ve participated in, listing it as an extracurricular activity is a great option. It gives you more space to elaborate on your roles, productions, and overall experience.
4. The “Space” Factor
The Common App only gives you five precious slots for the “Honors” section. So, how do you choose?
- Prioritize: If you have other awards or achievements that you consider more significant (like prestigious national awards or academic distinctions), you might prioritize those first.
- Strategic Listing: If you have multiple honor societies (like ITS and NHS), you can group them together under a single entry: “Honor Societies: International Thespian Society, National Honor Society.” This saves space and emphasizes your dedication to honor societies.
5. Make Your Entry Shine
Once you’ve decided to include ITS, it’s time to make it sing! Don’t just write “International Thespian Society.” Give them a taste of your dramatic flair!
- Highlight Your Role: Mention any significant roles you’ve played, awards you’ve received, or productions you’ve been involved in. For example: “International Thespian Society: Member since [Year], Awarded [Award name] for [Role] in [Production].”
- Show Your Passion: Use your entry to demonstrate your love for theater. Briefly mention your aspirations, experiences, or what thespian society means to you.
6. Don’t Forget the “Additional Information” Section
The Common App’s “Additional Information” section is your chance to elaborate on your passions. If you didn’t have enough space to share your theatrical journey in the “Honors” section, this is where you can let your inner drama queen (or king!) shine. Talk about your favorite roles, your most memorable performances, or your aspirations for the future.
Beyond the Common App: The Power of Storytelling
Remember, the Common App is just one piece of the puzzle. Don’t forget about your college essays, where you can truly let your theatrical personality shine! Here are some storytelling tips to make your essays unforgettable:
- Hook Them From the Start: Just like a good play, your essay needs a compelling hook. Start with a dramatic anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful image that grabs the reader’s attention.
- Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of just listing your accomplishments, use vivid language and sensory details to bring your experiences to life. Describe the feeling of the spotlight on your face, the anticipation before the curtain rises, or the joy of connecting with an audience.
- Embrace Your Inner Narrator: Your essay is your chance to be the storyteller. Think about how you want your story to unfold, and use your voice to create a compelling narrative.
In Conclusion: The Stage Is Yours!
So, there you have it! Thespian Society is a valuable asset to your college application. It shows you’re a well-rounded individual with a passion for the arts and a commitment to excellence. Don’t be afraid to showcase your theatrical talents and let your personality shine on the stage of your college applications.
Need Further Assistance?
If you’re still feeling a bit lost in the labyrinth of college applications, don’t fret! We’re here to help. Connect with us at the JobLoving community for more advice, resources, and support on your journey to college acceptance. Remember, you’ve got this! The stage is yours!