Should I Put All My Jobs on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
Remember that soul-crushing feeling of filling out the Common App? It’s like a never-ending series of multiple-choice questions, essays that make you question your life choices, and a seemingly endless list of activities that make you wonder if you’ve actually accomplished anything in your life. And then there’s the dreaded “activities” section, where you’re expected to showcase your extracurricular prowess with the finesse of a seasoned Olympic athlete.
So, you’re staring at that blinking cursor, your fingers hovering over the keyboard, and a single question echoes in your mind: “Should I put all my jobs on the Common App?”
Well, my friend, buckle up because the answer is not a simple “yes” or “no.” It’s more like a tangled web of “it depends” and “maybe” with a sprinkle of “what’s the point?” thrown in for good measure.
The “It Depends” Factor:
Here’s the deal: the Common App wants to see a well-rounded individual, someone who’s not just a textbook-wielding robot. They’re looking for your passions, your dedication, and your ability to juggle multiple commitments.
So, should you list every single job you’ve ever held? Well, that’s where the “it depends” comes in. If you’ve been a barista, a lifeguard, and a dog walker all at the same time, while also being the president of the debate team and a volunteer at the local animal shelter, congratulations! You’ve achieved the mythical status of “superhuman.”
But for the rest of us mere mortals, the key is to be strategic. Ask yourself these questions:
- Does this job showcase a relevant skill or interest? If you’ve been a barista for three years and your passion is writing poetry, maybe that job doesn’t scream “future English major.” Unless, of course, you’re a master barista who can create latte art that rivals the works of Michelangelo. Then, by all means, flaunt those latte-slinging skills.
- Did you gain valuable experience that aligns with your future goals? If you worked at a local bookstore and are applying to a program in literary studies, that job could be a valuable asset. It shows you’re passionate about books and have a genuine interest in the field.
- Did you hold a leadership position or take on significant responsibilities? If you were the head cashier at McDonald’s and managed a team of five, that’s worth mentioning. It demonstrates your leadership and organizational skills.
- Did you learn something valuable from the experience? Did your job teach you about teamwork, problem-solving, or customer service? These are all valuable skills that colleges are looking for.
The “Maybe” Factor:
Okay, so you’ve answered these questions and you’re still stuck on the fence. You’re thinking, “But what if these jobs show I’m a hard worker and I’m motivated?”
That’s great, but there’s a fine line between showcasing your work ethic and bombarding the admissions committee with a list of jobs that are all essentially the same. If you’ve worked at three different fast-food restaurants, for example, it might be more effective to combine those experiences into one entry.
Remember, the Common App has limited space, so make every word count. Don’t waste precious real estate on a laundry list of jobs that don’t offer much insight into who you are and what you bring to the table.
The “What’s the Point?” Factor:
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the dreaded “overdoing it” factor. The Common App is a marathon, not a sprint. You’re going to be bombarded with questions, essays, and deadlines, and it’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy and think that more is always better.
But here’s the thing: colleges are looking for well-rounded individuals, not superhuman robots. They want to see your passions, your skills, and your ability to engage in activities that you’re genuinely interested in. If you’re trying to cram in every single job you’ve ever held, you might end up creating a Frankenstein’s monster of an application that doesn’t actually represent your true self.
The Bottom Line:
So, should you put all your jobs on the Common App? The answer is: it depends. Use your best judgment, be strategic, and don’t be afraid to cut the fat. Focus on showcasing the jobs that highlight your skills, your passions, and your experiences that make you stand out from the crowd.
Remember, the Common App is meant to be a window into your personality, not a resume of every single thing you’ve ever done. Be honest, be thoughtful, and be yourself. And if you’re still unsure, consult your guidance counselor or a trusted friend. They can offer valuable feedback and help you create an application that truly reflects your unique strengths and ambitions.
Remember, it’s not about having the most impressive list of jobs, it’s about showcasing the experiences that have shaped you into the person you are today. And who knows, maybe that barista job will lead to a career in coffee roasting, or maybe that summer you spent working at a local farm inspired you to study environmental science. Every experience has the potential to shape your future, so don’t be afraid to let your story shine through.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the Common App or need help navigating the tricky waters of college applications, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate the process and make sure you’re presenting your best self to the colleges you’re dreaming of attending.
Good luck, and remember: you’ve got this!