Is Common App Extra Curriculars In Order Of Importance

The Great Extracurricular Activity Ranking Game: A Guide to Winning at the Common App

So, you’re staring at the Common App, and you’re faced with the dreaded “Activities” section. You’ve got ten precious slots to showcase your extracurricular prowess, and you’re trying to figure out which activities make the cut, and, most importantly, in what order. It’s like a high-stakes game of musical chairs, except instead of chairs, there are college admissions officers, and instead of music, there’s the clinking of acceptance letters.

Don’t worry, my friend. You’re not alone in this extracurricular odyssey. We’ve all been there, wondering if that one-week volunteer trip to a local soup kitchen holds the same weight as the three-year stint as president of the debate club. But fear not, because today, we’re going to dive deep into the mysterious world of Common App activity ranking, and I’m going to equip you with the knowledge you need to rank your activities like a pro.

The Common App itself doesn’t actually have a secret ranking algorithm. It’s more about showcasing your passions and achievements in a way that reflects your genuine self. However, just because there’s no official rubric doesn’t mean there isn’t a strategy. And believe me, the order of your activities matters.

The Great Extracurricular Activity Ranking Game: A Guide to Winning at the Common App

Think of the “Activities” section as your personal highlight reel. You want to showcase your most impressive moments, the ones that make you stand out from the crowd. But before you start ranking your activities like a crazed game show host, let’s first unpack the four key criteria that colleges use to evaluate your extracurricular involvement:

1. Number of years of high school the student did the activity: This shows commitment. Did you dabble in a club for a year and then ditch it? Or did you stick with it for the long haul? Consistency is key.
2. Hours per week during season (weeks per year as well): This demonstrates the level of your involvement. Did you just show up for meetings, or did you dedicate hours upon hours to your activity?
3. Level of leadership role: Colleges love to see leadership. Were you a mere member of the club, or did you rise through the ranks to become the president, captain, or lead organizer?
4. Measurable impact: This is where it gets interesting. Did your activity result in tangible outcomes? Did you raise money for a charity, win a competition, or organize a successful event?

Now, let’s talk about ranking.

First, Make a List

Before you start frantically rearranging your activities, take a deep breath and create a comprehensive list of everything you’ve done in high school. Every club, every sport, every volunteer gig, even that time you helped organize the school bake sale. Yes, even that one. This is your master list, your extracurricular bible.

Next, Assign Points

Now, it’s time to get strategic. We’re going to play a little game of “extracurricular point allocation.” Each of the four criteria we discussed earlier will get points based on how well you performed in each area.

1. Number of years:
   • 1 year: 1 point
   • 2 years: 2 points
   • 3+ years: 3 points
2. Hours per week:
   • Less than 5 hours: 1 point
   • 5-10 hours: 2 points
   • 10+ hours: 3 points
3. Leadership role:
   • Member: 1 point
   • Vice President/Co-Captain: 2 points
   • President/Captain: 3 points
4. Measurable impact:
   • Minimal impact: 1 point
   • Moderate impact: 2 points
   • Significant impact: 3 points

For example, let’s say you were president of the debate club for three years, dedicating 10+ hours a week, and your team won the state championship. You’d rack up a whopping 12 points: 3 points for years of involvement, 3 points for hours, 3 points for leadership, and 3 points for your championship win.

Rank Your Activities

Once you’ve assigned points to each activity, arrange them in descending order, from highest to lowest. This list now represents your top activities, those that are most likely to impress colleges.

Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

Don’t feel pressured to fill all ten slots. The Common App gives you ten slots, but that doesn’t mean you have to cram every single activity you’ve ever done into them. Focus on quality over quantity. Choose your top 5-7 activities, the ones that demonstrate your most significant achievements and passions. The rest can wait, or be placed in the “Additional Information” section if you feel they’re still important to showcase.

Don’t Be Afraid to Cut Activities

Let’s be honest, we all have those activities that we participated in for a fleeting moment, maybe even for just one semester. These are the ones that don’t really add anything to the story. Don’t be afraid to cut them; it’s better to have a strong, concise list than a cluttered, confusing one.

Use Descriptive Language

The Common App provides you with a limited number of characters for each activity, so make every word count. Use descriptive language to paint a picture of your involvement and impact. Instead of saying “Member of Math Club,” try “Co-President of Math Club, led team to win regional competition.” See the difference?

Be Honest and Authentic

The most important thing is to be genuine. College admissions officers can see through fluff and fabrication. Don’t try to inflate your accomplishments. Highlight your genuine passions and the experiences that truly shaped you.

Don’t Stress Too Much

Remember, the “Activities” section is just one piece of the puzzle. Your grades, test scores, essays, and recommendations will also play a role in the college admissions process. Don’t let the order of your activities consume you. Focus on presenting yourself as a well-rounded individual, and let your accomplishments speak for themselves.

Final Thoughts

The Common App “Activities” section is your chance to show colleges who you are beyond your grades and test scores. So, take your time, be strategic, and showcase your passions in a way that reflects your true self. And remember, even if you don’t have a list of activities that would make a CEO swoon, don’t fret. Your unique combination of experiences, talents, and personality is what makes you stand out.

Did this guide help you? If you’re still unsure about which extracurriculars to include on your Common App, or how to order them, don’t hesitate to connect with us at the JobLoving community. We can provide you with the guidance and support you need to create an application that truly reflects your strengths and aspirations.