Should You Pump Iron on Your College Application? The Truth About Including the Gym on the Common App
So, you’ve been hitting the gym harder than a college student hitting the books during finals week. You’re feeling buff, you’re feeling strong, and you’re feeling… a little lost when it comes to the Common App. Do you list “Gym Rat” as an extracurricular activity? Does the admissions committee really care if you can bench press your weight in textbooks?
The short answer is: it depends.
Now, before you yell at your phone like it’s a personal trainer who forgot to spot you during a heavy lift, let’s break down the complexities of the Common App and your gym sessions.
The Common App: Less Common Than You Think
The Common App is like a standardized test for college applications. It’s a one-stop shop where you can fill out your basic information, write your essays, and showcase your extracurricular activities. It seems simple enough, right? Well, the “extracurricular activities” section is where things get a little… extra.
The Common App doesn’t explicitly say you can’t list “going to the gym” as an activity. But, let’s be real, it’s like saying you can’t list “breathing” as an extracurricular. Technically true, but not exactly what they’re looking for.
Think of it this way: The Common App is like a dating profile. You want to highlight your best qualities, the ones that make you stand out from the crowd. Listing “Gym Rat” is like saying “I like to eat” – it’s true, but it doesn’t tell us much about you.
The Gym: More Than Just a Place to Sweat
Now, let’s talk about the gym. It’s not just a place to lift weights and huff and puff. It can be a place of discipline, dedication, and personal growth – all qualities that colleges are looking for.
But, here’s the catch: It’s not the gym itself that matters, but what you do in the gym. You can’t just say “I go to the gym.” You need to show how your gym time has transformed you, how it’s shaped your character, and how it’s made you a better, stronger, and more resilient individual.
Turning Gym Time into College Cred
So, how can you turn your gym sessions into something that shines on your Common App? Here’s the secret sauce:
- Show, don’t tell: Don’t just say “I work out.” Tell a story. Did you overcome an injury to hit a new personal record? Did you motivate your friends to join you on your fitness journey? Did you learn the importance of perseverance through the grueling process of getting your squat right?
- Highlight the impact: How has weightlifting impacted your life? Has it helped you manage stress, improve your focus, or become more confident? These are the benefits that admissions committees will appreciate.
- Go beyond the basic: Don’t just talk about lifting weights. Did you compete in a powerlifting competition? Did you volunteer at a local gym to help others reach their fitness goals? Did you start a fitness blog or social media account to share your passion with the world?
- Connect it to your future: If you’re passionate about fitness, how does it relate to your intended major or career path? Are you interested in becoming a physical therapist, a personal trainer, or a nutritionist? Show the admissions committee that your gym time isn’t just a hobby – it’s a stepping stone to your future.
The Bottom Line: It’s Not About the Gym, It’s About You
The truth is, the Common App is a complex beast, and sometimes, it just feels like trying to navigate a labyrinth of confusing requirements and expectations. Don’t worry, though. You’re not alone.
The most important thing to remember is that the Common App is a way to showcase who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what you can bring to a college community. So, if your gym time has truly shaped you into a more dedicated, disciplined, and passionate individual, then by all means, let the admissions committee know. Just remember to tell your story, highlight the impact, and connect it to your future.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll inspire a few future college applicants to ditch the couch and hit the gym themselves. After all, everyone needs a little motivation to reach their full potential.
Still feeling lost in the world of college applications? Don’t worry, we got you. Join our JobLoving community where you can connect with other students, get advice from experts, and find the resources you need to conquer the college application process. We’re here to help you crush your goals, one rep at a time.