Should You Say “Xbox” on the Common App? The Great Gaming Debate
So, you’re staring at the Common App, your cursor blinking accusingly at the “Extracurricular Activities” section. You’re a gamer, a hardcore, level-100, controller-wielding, all-nighter-pulling gamer. You’ve spent countless hours slaying dragons, building empires, and racking up achievements, but should you, in the hallowed halls of college admissions, confess your love for that box?
The short answer? It’s complicated.
Think of the Common App as a carefully curated social media profile, showcasing your best self. You wouldn’t post a picture of yourself in your pajamas, right? (Well, maybe not on your personal social media, but on the Common App, it’s a whole different story.)
The “Xbox” question isn’t about the mere act of gaming, but how you present it.
Let’s break it down, shall we?
The Case For: Gaming as a Skill
- The Digital Renaissance: Gaming isn’t just a hobby anymore; it’s a multi-billion dollar industry, a global phenomenon, and a potential career path.
- It’s About More Than Just Clicking Buttons: Gaming requires strategy, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These are skills colleges love to see. Think of it as a virtual chess club with more explosions and loot drops.
- Esports on the Rise: Competitive gaming (aka esports) is taking the world by storm, with pro gamers earning millions and universities offering scholarships. Mentioning your gaming experience can highlight your competitiveness and dedication.
The Case Against: The Gaming Stigma
- The “Nerd” Stereotype: Let’s face it, the image of the gamer hasn’t always been the most glamorous. Colleges might see gaming as a time-waster or a distraction from academics.
- Finding the Balance: If your gaming habits overshadow your academics, it might raise red flags. Colleges want well-rounded individuals, not just joystick masters.
- The “What Happens in Vegas” Rule: The Common App is your opportunity to showcase your best self, not your worst. If you’re known for online rage-quitting or spending all night on Fortnite, maybe keep that side of your gaming life under wraps.
How to Showcase Your Gaming Passion
- The “If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It” Approach: If you already have a solid list of extracurricular activities, including gaming might be overkill. Focus on activities that showcase your leadership, creativity, or community involvement.
- The “Extra Information” Section: This is your chance to add a touch of personality to your application. If you’ve achieved something significant in the gaming world, mention it briefly and highlight the transferable skills you gained. For example, “I developed my leadership and strategic thinking skills as captain of my school’s esports team.”
- The “Extracurricular Activities” Section: If you’ve participated in competitive gaming, volunteering, or mentoring related to gaming, list it! Don’t be afraid to quantify your achievements, like “Led my team to victory in the regional esports tournament” or “Developed a mobile game that has garnered over 10,000 downloads.”
The Common App is a Game (But Not the One You Think)
The Common App is a game of strategy and finesse. It’s about presenting yourself in the best light, highlighting your strengths, and demonstrating your potential.
Think of it as a high-stakes RPG, where your life’s story unfolds. You wouldn’t level up your character by just farming for loot, right? You’d also invest in skills, explore different areas, and build connections.
The same goes for your Common App. Don’t be afraid to showcase your gaming passion, but do it strategically and thoughtfully.
Need Help Leveling Up Your Common App?
If you’re still feeling lost in the maze of college applications, don’t worry! There are plenty of resources out there to help you level up your application game.
Check out our JobLoving community for tips, advice, and support from fellow gamers and college application veterans. We’re here to help you conquer the Common App and achieve your dream college admission.
Remember, the game is on! Let’s win this together.