The Common App: A Guide to Adding Things Before High School (Because You’re Basically a Time Traveler)
So, you’re about to tackle the Common App, that glorious beast of a college application system. You’ve got your grades, your test scores, and your essays all prepped, but you’re staring at the “Activities” section with a bewildered expression. “Extracurriculars? Before high school?” You’re thinking, “I was busy playing with Legos and mastering the art of the perfect pancake.” Well, fear not, young Padawan, because you’re about to embark on a journey of self-discovery (and a little bit of creative license) as we dive into the nuanced world of pre-high school activities on the Common App.
The Common App’s “Activities” Section: Your Resume of Awesome (or at Least, Not-So-Boring) Achievements
The Common App’s “Activities” section is like your high school resume, but with a more “I’m a well-rounded individual” vibe. Think of it as a chance to showcase your passions, talents, and all the things you’ve done that make you stand out from the crowd of other 17-year-olds who can’t seem to stop binge-watching Netflix.
The Common App allows you to list up to ten activities – and yes, this includes the stuff you did before high school. Here’s the good news: you can squeeze in those activities from those formative pre-high school years, proving you’ve been a go-getter since the age of, well, whenever you decided Legos were too childish.
Pre-High School Activities: More Than Just Playing With Legos (But Seriously, Those Were Good Years)
Let’s be honest, some of us didn’t exactly have a Harvard-worthy resume before high school. We were busy perfecting our finger-painting skills and mastering the art of the perfect sandcastle. But hey, don’t underestimate those early years! They’re a goldmine of potential Common App material.
Here’s the thing: colleges are more interested in the impact of your activities than the specific activity itself. Think about the skills you developed during those formative years. Did you learn teamwork while playing on a soccer team? Did you develop your leadership skills while organizing a neighborhood lemonade stand? Did you master the art of persuasion while convincing your parents to let you stay up past bedtime? These are all valuable experiences that can translate into compelling Common App entries.
Adding Middle School Activities: The “Other Courses” Section Is Your Friend
So, you took that killer middle school elective in “The History of the Microwave” (we’ve all been there) and you want to include it on your Common App. Fear not, you can! Use the “Other Courses” section and simply list the course and the name of the high school that lists it on your transcript. No need to mention the middle school name – it’s not like they’re going to send a fact-checking team to confirm your middle school history.
The “Date of Entry” on the Common App: Not Your High School Graduation Date (Confusing, I Know)
This is where things can get a little tricky. The “Date of Entry” on the Common App refers to the date you plan to enter college, not when you began high school. It’s like a time portal, letting you jump ahead to the exciting (and slightly terrifying) world of college.
Extracurricular Activities: The Key to Success (and Maybe a Little Bit of Napping)
Now, let’s talk about the golden ticket to a spectacular Common App profile: extracurricular activities. Here’s where those pre-high school experiences really shine.
- Volunteer Work: Did you volunteer at a local soup kitchen? Did you spend your weekends helping out at the animal shelter? Did you convince your parents to let you adopt a hamster? These are all great examples of volunteer work that demonstrate your commitment to serving others.
- Sports: Even if you never made it to the varsity team, playing on a recreational sports team shows that you’re active and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Plus, you can use the Common App to showcase your athleticism without having to actually run a marathon.
- Arts and Crafts: This is where your pre-high school creativity really shines. Did you win a local art competition? Did you perfect the art of origami? Did you spend hours making friendship bracelets (and then accidentally lose them all)? These are all valuable experiences that demonstrate your artistic side.
- Hobbies: Remember that time you spent hours building a model airplane? Or that time you taught yourself how to play the ukulele? Even if it was just a fleeting fascination, these hobbies show that you have interests beyond academics.
- Leadership: Believe it or not, even those pre-high school years offer opportunities for leadership. Did you organize a neighborhood cleanup day? Did you lead a group of friends on a scavenger hunt? Did you successfully negotiate a later bedtime with your parents? These are all examples of leadership skills that can be highlighted on your Common App.
The Common App’s “Activities” Section: A Chance to Showcase Your Uniqueness
Remember, the Common App’s “Activities” section is about showcasing who you are as a person. It’s more than just a list of activities; it’s a story about your passions, your talents, and your experiences. So, embrace those pre-high school years and let your unique personality shine through!
The Common App: It’s Not Just About the Activities (But They Definitely Help)
While the Common App’s “Activities” section is important, it’s not the only component of your application. Your grades, your test scores, and your essays all play a crucial role in the college admissions process. But by taking the time to fill out the “Activities” section thoughtfully and creatively, you can give yourself a significant advantage.
The Common App: A Journey of Self-Discovery (and Sometimes, a Little Bit of Stress)
The Common App can be a daunting task, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on your journey so far. Think about the experiences that have shaped you, the skills you’ve developed, and the person you’ve become. And don’t be afraid to add those pre-high school activities! They may seem trivial, but they’re a testament to your growth and development.
Need More Help? Reach Out!
If you’re still feeling lost in the labyrinth of the Common App, don’t worry. There are tons of resources available to help you navigate this process. And if you need some extra guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community for support and advice. We’re here to help you shine your brightest!