Should You Put Video Games on Your Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
Okay, so you’re a gamer. You live and breathe those pixels, you’ve got more thumbs than a monkey, and your knowledge of the latest loot drops would make even the most hardcore Twitch streamer weep with envy. But when it comes to that all-important Common App, you’re staring at the “Extracurricular Activities” section, wondering: Should I even mention my love affair with video games?
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is a journey into the world of college admissions, where the answer is rarely a clean-cut “yes” or “no.”
The Short Answer: It Depends.
It’s a classic case of “it depends.” Like the fine print on a credit card agreement, there are a million variables at play.
The Long Answer: It’s Like Trying to Explain the Meaning of Life to a Toddler.
Let’s break this down, shall we?
On the One Hand, You’ve Got the “Video Games = Bad” Camp.
These folks are like the grumpy old folks on your block who think anything invented after the rotary phone is a sign of the apocalypse. They see video games as a waste of time, a drain on your productivity, and a breeding ground for…well, let’s just say they probably wouldn’t approve of your “gamer” username.
Remember that dreaded stigma? It’s like the ghost of “Call of Duty” past, haunting the halls of academia. Colleges are looking for well-rounded individuals who are engaged in the real world. They want to see evidence of leadership, teamwork, and maybe a sprinkle of community service. And, well, your average “Grand Theft Auto” session doesn’t exactly scream “community service.”
But Wait, There’s More! The “Video Games = Good” Camp is Also a Thing.
These are the enlightened souls who understand that gaming isn’t just about pressing buttons and yelling at your computer screen (though sometimes it is, let’s be real). They recognize that video games can be a powerful tool for learning, problem-solving, and even creative expression.
Think about it. Video games demand strategic thinking, quick reflexes, and a whole lot of teamwork. They can teach you about history, culture, even coding (we’re looking at you, Minecraft). And, yes, you can even make money from them (looking at you, esports pros).
So, What’s a Gamer to Do?
The key, my friend, is balance. You don’t want to come across as a one-dimensional gamer who lives, breathes, and sleeps “Call of Duty.” But you also don’t want to bury your love of gaming under a mountain of generic extracurriculars.
Here’s the Game Plan:
- Be Strategic: Think about how you can showcase your gaming skills in a way that aligns with what colleges are looking for.
- Think outside the box: Instead of listing “playing video games” as an extracurricular, consider starting a gaming club at your school, organizing a gaming tournament for charity, or even creating your own game.
- Showcase your leadership: If you’re a leader in an online gaming community, highlight those experiences. Colleges love leadership skills.
- Write a Killer Essay: If you’re passionate about video games and they’ve had a significant impact on your life, consider writing your Common App essay about them. Just be sure to focus on the skills you’ve learned and the personal growth you’ve experienced.
- Don’t Overdo It: While it’s great to showcase your passions, don’t let video games become the sole focus of your application. Make sure you have a balanced profile that highlights your other interests and accomplishments.
Remember, the goal is to tell your story. If video games are a part of that story, show colleges how they’ve shaped you and what you’ve learned from them.
But Let’s Be Real, It’s Still a Little Risky.
The truth is, there’s no guarantee that colleges will view your gaming hobby with the same level of enthusiasm as your volunteer work at the local animal shelter. It’s a gamble, my friend, but one you might be willing to take.
Think of it this way: If you’re not going to be the next “League of Legends” champion, you might as well use your gaming skills to your advantage. After all, what’s a college application without a little bit of risk?
Need More Help?
If you’re still struggling with this whole “video game on the Common App” dilemma, don’t fret! Reach out to us at the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you level up your college application game.
Just remember, even if you don’t end up writing about video games on your application, don’t forget to keep those controllers close. You’ve got a whole world of digital adventures waiting for you, even after you graduate.