Cramming Your Life into 150 Characters: The Common App Activity Description Dilemma
Let’s be honest, applying to college is like trying to cram an entire buffet into your stomach before the dessert cart rolls around – it’s a stressful, chaotic, and ultimately, delicious experience. But just like you wouldn’t try to stuff a whole birthday cake in your face, you also shouldn’t try to squeeze your entire life story into the Common App’s activity descriptions.
We’re talking about those tiny, seemingly insignificant boxes where you’re expected to encapsulate years of dedication, hard work, and maybe even a few awkward teenage moments. With a measly 150 characters, you’re basically trying to write a Shakespearean sonnet in the space of a tweet.
So, how the heck do you do it?
The Art of the 150-Character Squeeze:
- Stop, Breathe, and Prioritize: Instead of listing every single activity you’ve ever done, focus on the ones that really stand out. Remember, your goal is to impress, not overwhelm.
- Start with the “What” and “Why”: Avoid fluff. Clearly state what you did (e.g., volunteered at a local soup kitchen) and why it mattered to you.
- Quantify Your Impact: Numbers speak louder than words. If you raised $500 for a charity, say it. If you led a team to victory, don’t be shy about boasting.
- Highlight the “How”: Don’t just tell them what you did, but how you did it. Did you develop a new fundraising strategy? Did you take on a leadership role? Show, don’t tell.
- End with a Bang: Finish strong with an impactful statement that leaves a lasting impression. Perhaps a personal takeaway or a glimpse into your future aspirations.
Examples of Winning Activity Descriptions:
Bad:
Volunteered at Animal Shelter. Walked dogs. Gave food.
Good:
Raised $500 for [Shelter Name] through dog walking events, providing essential care for over 50 rescued animals.
Even Better:
Led a team of 10 volunteers at [Shelter Name], organizing fundraising events that raised $500, providing essential care for over 50 rescued animals. Witnessing the impact of our efforts reignited my passion for animal welfare and inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
The Common App Activity Description: Your Personal Brand in 150 Characters
Think of your Common App activities section like a mini-resume. Each activity is a chance to showcase your skills, passions, and achievements. Use this space to tell colleges who you are, what you’ve done, and why they should choose you.
Don’t Forget the “Why”:
While the character limit might feel suffocating, remember that the Common App is more than just a collection of numbers. It’s a chance to tell your story. Every activity you list should be a reflection of your personality, interests, and aspirations.
Tips for Avoiding the 150-Character Trap:
- Practice Makes Perfect: Try writing out your descriptions in full sentences, then ruthlessly edit them down to their essence.
- Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask a trusted teacher, counselor, or mentor to give you honest feedback on your descriptions.
- Don’t Panic: Remember, the Common App is just one piece of the puzzle. Your grades, test scores, and letters of recommendation all play a role in your application.
The Bottom Line:
Don’t let the 150-character limit intimidate you. Embrace the challenge and use it as an opportunity to present yourself in a clear, concise, and compelling way. Remember, you’re not just filling out a form; you’re crafting a story that could change your future.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed, don’t despair! At JobLoving, we’re passionate about helping students navigate the college application process. We offer personalized guidance, expert advice, and a supportive community to help you craft the perfect Common App activities section and conquer your college dreams.
So, what are you waiting for? Connect with us today and let’s get started!