How to Describe Sports on the Common App: A Guide to Avoid a “Foul” Application
So, you’ve got your Common App profile all set up, your essays are gleaming, and you’re about to hit that glorious “Submit” button. But wait! What about the activities section? You’ve got a whole list of extracurriculars, but how do you describe your beloved sport in a way that doesn’t make it sound like a generic, pre-written blurb? Fear not, aspiring college athlete, for I’m here to help you score points with your Common App sports description!
Remember, the Common App is not a sports highlight reel. It’s a chance for you to showcase your personality, your passion, and what you gained from your athletic journey. Think of it as a chance to tell a story, not just list accomplishments.
The Dos and Don’ts of Describing Sports on the Common App:
Do:
- Focus on the “Why”: Don’t just tell them what you did; explain why it mattered. What did you learn? How did it shape you? Did you overcome challenges? Did you develop leadership skills?
- Showcase Your Unique Perspective: What made your experience different? Was it a specific moment of triumph or failure that taught you valuable lessons? Did you have a unique role on the team? Dive into the details that make your story stand out.
- Use Active Voice: Instead of “I was the captain,” write “I led my team to victory.” Use action verbs to create a sense of dynamism and excitement.
- Keep it Concise: The Common App activity descriptions are meant to be brief. Focus on the most impactful moments and experiences.
Don’t:
- Bragg: We all love a good victory, but bragging about your stats or achievements comes across as arrogant and self-centered. Focus on your growth and lessons learned, not your trophies.
- Lie or Exaggerate: Honesty is key. If you’re not a star player, don’t pretend to be. Colleges can often verify your information, and a lie could seriously jeopardize your application.
- Overuse Clichés: “I learned the importance of teamwork” is a common cliché. Try to find a unique and personal way to express that idea.
- Focus on the Sport Itself: Remember, the Common App is about *you*. The sport is simply a vehicle for showcasing your character and skills. Don’t go into too much detail about the sport’s rules or history.
The Power of Storytelling in Your Common App Sports Description:
Imagine you’re telling a friend about a memorable sports experience. What would you say? What details would you share? Use that same approach in your Common App description. Here are some storytelling techniques to consider:
1. Start with a Hook:
Grab the reader’s attention with a captivating opening sentence. For example, “The roar of the crowd was deafening as I stepped onto the field…” This immediately draws the reader in and sets the stage for your story.
2. Use Sensory Details:
Paint a picture with your words. Describe the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings that were part of your experience. Did you feel the sting of the wind as you ran? Did you smell the freshly cut grass? Did you hear the cheers of your teammates as you scored the winning goal?
3. Show, Don’t Tell:
Instead of simply stating your accomplishments, use vivid language to show the reader what you did. For example, instead of “I was a team leader,” write “I motivated my teammates with pep talks and strategic insights during timeouts.”
4. Highlight Growth:
Every athlete faces challenges. Share a moment where you struggled and what you learned from it. Did you overcome a personal setback? Did you learn to work collaboratively with teammates who had different personalities? These stories demonstrate your resilience and ability to adapt.
5. Connect to Your Goals:
How did your sports experiences shape your goals for the future? Did they inspire you to pursue a career in sports? Did they teach you valuable skills that you can apply to your academic studies or future career? Connect your sports experiences to your aspirations to show colleges that you’re a well-rounded and motivated individual.
Sports Descriptions: Examples from Successful Students
Let’s look at some real-life examples from successful students who used their Common App sports descriptions to make a lasting impression:
Example 1: The “Underdog” Story
“From the moment I first stepped onto the basketball court, I knew I was in for a challenge. As a freshman, I was the smallest player on the team, and I often found myself sitting on the bench. But I wasn’t discouraged. I used every practice session to hone my skills, and I never gave up on my dream of starting. With each game, I grew more confident, and by the end of my senior year, I had earned a starting spot and helped my team win the state championship. This journey taught me that perseverance and dedication can overcome any obstacle.”
This example effectively showcases the student’s determination, growth, and ability to overcome challenges. It also highlights the student’s commitment to their team and their passion for the sport.
Example 2: The “Leadership” Story
“Being captain of the soccer team was an incredible experience. I learned the importance of leading by example, both on and off the field. I organized team practices, motivated my teammates during tough games, and fostered a positive and supportive team environment. I also learned the value of delegation and communication, as I had to work collaboratively with my fellow captains and coaches to ensure that everyone was on the same page. Through this experience, I developed my leadership skills and gained valuable insights into how to effectively manage a team.”
This example demonstrates the student’s leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and ability to work collaboratively. It also highlights the student’s commitment to their team and their desire to contribute to its success.
Sports Descriptions: What to Avoid
While it’s important to highlight your achievements, don’t fall into the trap of overstating your accomplishments or exaggerating your impact on the team. Here are some examples of what to avoid:
Example 1: The “Braggart”
“I was the star player on my high school soccer team. I scored the winning goal in the state championship game. The coaches all said I was the best player they had ever seen. I’m going to be a professional soccer player someday.”
This example is overly self-promotional and comes across as arrogant. It also focuses too much on the student’s individual accomplishments and doesn’t provide any insight into the student’s personal growth or character.
Example 2: The “Generic”
“I played varsity soccer for four years. I was a member of the team that won the state championship in my junior year. I learned the importance of teamwork and dedication.”
This example is too generic and doesn’t provide any specific details about the student’s experience. It also uses clichés and doesn’t showcase the student’s personality or unique perspective on the sport.
Remember, Your Sports Description Is Your Story
Your Common App sports description is an opportunity to tell colleges who you are, what you’ve learned, and how your passion for sports has shaped you. Don’t be afraid to get personal and showcase your unique perspective. Use your story to connect with the admissions committee and leave a lasting impression.
Still searching for that perfect sports description? The JobLoving community is here to help! Connect with us today and we’ll help you craft a compelling and memorable Common App profile.