The Great Academic Decathlon Debate: Does It Belong in the Honors Section?
We’ve all been there. You’re sweating over your Common App, trying to make it look like you’re a shining beacon of academic prowess, extracurricular brilliance, and general awesomeness. One section you might be scratching your head over is the “Honors” section. And if you’ve toiled away in the trenches of Academic Decathlon, you might be wondering: Does my Academic Decathlon achievement belong in this hallowed space?
The short answer is… it depends. Let’s break it down, shall we?
The Common App’s “Honors” Section: A Land of Ambiguity
The Common App’s “Honors” section is a bit of a black hole. It’s a mysterious space where academic awards and achievements dance in a strange, undefined waltz. The official Common App guidance says that this section is for anything “academic” – but what does that even mean?
The Common App’s definition of “academic” is as flexible as a yoga instructor on a good day. It seems to encompass anything from school-wide honors like making the honor roll to specific subject awards like “Outstanding Achievement in Biology.” It even extends to awards from national competitions like the National Merit Scholarship.
So, where does Academic Decathlon fit into this blurry landscape?
The Academic Decathlon: A Test of Knowledge and Endurance (and Not Always a Big Deal)
Academic Decathlon is a grueling competition that tests your knowledge in a variety of subjects, from science and math to literature and art. You’re basically a walking, talking encyclopedia, ready to face off against other high-achieving students.
But here’s the thing: Academic Decathlon isn’t always a big deal. It’s not like winning the Nobel Prize or getting a full-ride scholarship to Harvard (though a decent score could certainly help with that).
The Key to Navigating the “Honors” Section: “Academic” vs. “Extracurricular”
The real dilemma is this: Academic Decathlon is definitely academic. It tests your knowledge and your ability to apply that knowledge. But it’s also an extracurricular activity. You’re part of a team, you train together, and you compete together.
Here’s where the Common App’s flexibility comes into play. You could argue that Academic Decathlon belongs in the “Honors” section because it’s an academic competition. But you could also argue that it belongs in the “Activities & Awards” section because it’s an extracurricular activity.
The Bottom Line: It’s Your Call
Ultimately, the decision of where to list your Academic Decathlon achievement is up to you. There’s no right or wrong answer. It depends on how you want to highlight this achievement and what other experiences you have to showcase.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Putting it in the “Honors” Section:
Pros:
- It emphasizes the academic aspect of your achievement.
- It can make your application stand out, especially if you have a strong performance record.
Cons:
- It might dilute the impact of other more traditional academic honors you’ve received.
- It might make your application look “stuffy” or overly focused on academics.
Putting it in the “Activities & Awards” Section:
Pros:
- It highlights the extracurricular nature of your experience.
- It shows your commitment to teamwork and your willingness to challenge yourself.
Cons:
- It might not be as impactful as listing it in the “Honors” section.
- It might not be clear to admissions officers that it’s an academic achievement.
A Few Final Tips
- Read the instructions for the Common App carefully. Some colleges may have specific guidelines for what they consider “honors.”
- Think about your overall application strategy. Where will Academic Decathlon best showcase your strengths?
- Be honest about your achievements. Don’t overinflate the importance of your Academic Decathlon experience.
- Write a compelling description of your experience. Explain what you learned, what challenges you faced, and what you accomplished.
Remember, the “Honors” section is just one part of your application. Focus on crafting a compelling narrative that showcases your academic achievements, extracurricular experiences, and personal qualities.
And if you’re still not sure what to do, ask your guidance counselor or a trusted college advisor for their input.
Need Additional Help?
If you’re still struggling to decide where to put your Academic Decathlon achievement, or if you have other questions about the Common App, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process and make your dreams a reality. Just remember, we’re not responsible for any stress-induced hair loss. That’s all on you.