Should Extracurricular Activities on the Common App Be in the Present Tense? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Tricky!)
So, you’re knee-deep in the Common App, staring at that dreaded “Activities” section. You’ve got a list of accomplishments longer than your Instagram feed, and you’re wondering, “Should I be using past tense or present tense for my extracurriculars?”
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
The General Rule: It’s All About Timing
The general consensus (and what most college admissions folks will tell you) is:
- Past tense: For activities that are finished. Think of that epic bake sale you organized in 8th grade or the time you led your school’s robotics team to victory (but they sadly disbanded after that glorious win).
- Present tense: For activities that are ongoing. Are you still the captain of the debate team? Do you still volunteer at the animal shelter every weekend? Present tense is your friend.
But Wait, There’s a Catch
Here’s where things get a little murky. Some activities are a bit of a gray area – like, what about a club or volunteer position that you started in high school but are still going strong?
Should you write “I volunteered at the local soup kitchen…” or “I volunteer at the local soup kitchen…”?
The “Unnatural” Feeling
I get it. Using present tense for activities that you started in the past can feel a bit…unnatural. It’s like saying, “I’m a 17-year-old who has been volunteering for three years,” which might make you sound a little bit like a time traveler.
The “Show, Don’t Tell” Approach
Let’s say you’ve been a member of the school newspaper for the past three years. You could write: “I was a member of the school newspaper, where I wrote articles and designed layouts.”
But that’s a bit…boring. Instead, try: “I write articles and design layouts for the school newspaper, contributing to its reach and enhancing its visual appeal.”
See how the present tense makes your contribution feel more alive and immediate? It’s like you’re right there in the newsroom, churning out content like a pro.
The “Future-Forward” Perspective
Remember, college admissions officers aren’t just looking at your past; they’re trying to get a sense of who you’ll be in the future. Using present tense for ongoing activities can subtly suggest that you’re someone who is actively engaged in the world, eager to learn and grow.
The “It’s Not About Perfection, It’s About You” Mantra
Look, the truth is, there’s no magic formula that guarantees your application will be accepted. The most important thing is to be genuine and authentic. If using present tense feels awkward to you, then don’t force it. The point is to showcase your personality and passions, not to adhere to some rigid grammatical rule.
The “Don’t Overthink It” Strategy
Ultimately, the choice of tense is just one small piece of the puzzle. Focus on writing a thoughtful, engaging description of your activities that highlights your skills and accomplishments. Let your passion shine through, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
The “Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help” Reminder
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App activities, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Your guidance counselor, teachers, or even a trusted friend or family member can offer valuable advice and feedback. And hey, if you’re really stuck, there are tons of resources available online, like the College Essay Guy blog (which, fun fact, is where I learned most of this stuff).
A Final Word of Wisdom
Remember, the Common App is just one part of your college application process. It’s not the be-all and end-all of your future. Relax, breathe, and trust your gut. You’ve got this!
Need More Help? Join the JobLoving Community!
If you need further assistance with your Common App, or just want to connect with other students who are going through the same thing, check out the JobLoving community! We’ve got a supportive group of people who can offer advice, encouragement, and maybe even a few laughs along the way. Happy applying!