Does Exaggerating Time on the Common App Bad? A Tale of Lies, Admission Committees, and a Tiny Bit of Self-Promotion
Let’s be honest, applying to college is stressful. It’s like trying to cram a whole year of achievements into a carefully formatted document, all while desperately hoping that your personality doesn’t come across as a soulless robot. And then there’s the dreaded Activities Section – the one that makes you question if you’ve actually lived a life beyond studying and Netflix. So, is it okay to fudge the numbers a bit? To sprinkle in a little “creative embellishment” to make your extracurricular activities sound more impressive? The answer, my friends, is a resounding “Nope, not cool.”
Think of it this way: You’re applying to a school that values integrity. Colleges want students who are honest, take responsibility for their actions, and aren’t afraid to own their accomplishments (or lack thereof). Exaggerating your time commitment to a club is like trying to convince your mom that you spent the whole weekend studying when you actually binged “The Crown” and ate a whole bag of chips. You might get away with it for a while, but eventually, the truth comes out.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But everyone does it! It’s just a little white lie.” Ugh, I hate to break it to you, but that’s a dangerous line to tread. College admissions officers are seasoned veterans. They’ve seen it all, from the “I’m a world-renowned artist” lie to the “I single-handedly saved the school’s budget” fabrication. They’re not easily fooled. And don’t even think about claiming some imaginary leadership position you never held – that’s a straight-up red flag.
Here’s the truth: exaggeration on a college application is not just unethical, it’s risky. Colleges have ways of verifying your claims. If they find out you’ve been fibbing, they might just rescind your acceptance – yes, even after you’ve started classes. And let’s be real, that’s a whole lot of stress you don’t need in your life.
So, how do you make your activities section shine without resorting to deception? Focus on quality over quantity. Don’t list a dozen clubs you barely participated in. Instead, choose a few activities that truly matter to you and highlight your genuine contributions. Instead of saying you “helped” with a project, mention specific tasks you completed and the impact you had. Show, don’t tell, your passion and commitment.
Remember, the key to a successful college application is authenticity. Embrace your unique experiences and accomplishments, no matter how big or small they seem. Colleges are looking for students who are genuine, passionate, and have something valuable to contribute to their community. And trust me, your true self is way more fascinating than a fabricated version.
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “What about those times when it feels like everyone else is exaggerating?” Look, I get it. It can be tempting to compare yourself to others and feel like you need to inflate your accomplishments to stand out. But remember, everyone’s journey is unique. Focus on your own path and let your genuine talents shine through.
Ultimately, honesty is the best policy. It’s not just about getting into college. It’s about building a foundation of integrity that will serve you well in your academic and professional life. So, ditch the creative embellishments, embrace your true self, and let your accomplishments speak for themselves. You might just be surprised at how far that can take you.
Now, if you’re still feeling a little lost in the world of college applications and need some extra guidance, feel free to reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re happy to answer your questions and offer support as you navigate this exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) process. Remember, you’ve got this!