What are Honors on the Common App? A Guide for the Confused and the Overachiever
So, you’re staring at the Common App, feeling like a deer caught in headlights. You’re diligently filling out every section, but then you hit “Honors.” Your brain starts to short-circuit. You know you’ve won some awards, but are they “honors”? Do you even deserve to call yourself “honorable?” And what exactly are honors, anyway? Fear not, my friend! This blog post is here to unravel the mysteries of the Common App Honors section. We’ll delve into the depths of “honor” and equip you with the knowledge to confidently flaunt your achievements.
What Does “Honors” Mean in College Applications?
Let’s be honest, the word “honors” can be as intimidating as a trigonometry exam. But fear not! It’s simpler than you think. Essentially, “honors” on the Common App refers to any significant achievement or recognition you’ve received. Think of it like a trophy cabinet for your accomplishments – a place to showcase your brilliance and dedication. But hold on, there’s a catch! The Common App is all about academic prowess, so while a karate black belt is impressive, it’s not necessarily going to impress the admissions committee (unless you’re applying to a martial arts-focused university, of course).
The Common App Honors Section: Your Time to Shine (Or Not)
Let’s break down the common “honors” that might grace your Common App:
- Academic Honors: This is where you list the coveted awards that make your parents proud and your teachers jealous.
- Graduating with Honors: This is like the gold medal of high school. It shows you’ve consistently excelled in your studies. Let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good “Summa cum Laude” on a diploma? It screams, “Hey, look at me, I’m a scholar!”
- National Merit Scholarship Program: This is a big deal, people! It’s a testament to your academic prowess and potential. It’s like saying, “Hey, I’m the cream of the crop, check me out!”
- Honor Roll: This is like the “I’m-trying-my-best” award. It shows you’re a consistent performer, even if you’re not always the top dog.
- Subject-Specific Awards: You’ve got a passion for history? Science? Math? Did you win a prize for your stellar achievements in those subjects? Add it to the list! It’s a way to show your dedication and commitment to specific fields.
- Extracurricular Honors: This is where you can showcase your talents beyond the classroom.
- Leadership Positions: Did you lead your debate team to victory? Did you spearhead a fundraising campaign that raised thousands of dollars? These leadership roles demonstrate your initiative, teamwork, and organizational skills.
- Awards and Recognitions: Did you win a prestigious award for your artwork, your writing, or your community service? This is your chance to brag about it.
- Publications: Did your short story win a contest? Did your research paper get published in a prestigious journal? This shows your passion for creativity and intellectual pursuits.
What NOT to Include in the Honors Section:
Remember, the Common App Honors section is not a catch-all for every achievement you’ve ever had. It’s a place to showcase those achievements that truly highlight your academic potential. Resist the temptation to include everything from your participation in the school band to your impressive collection of Pokemon cards (unless you’re applying to a Pokemon University, of course).
Here’s a quick cheat sheet on what to avoid:
- Honors Classes: Don’t list “AP English” or “IB History” in the Honors section. These are just advanced courses. Colleges already know you’re taking them from your transcript.
- Personal Achievements: While your marathon finish or your volunteer work is commendable, it doesn’t belong in the Honors section. These achievements belong in the “Activities” section.
- Awards With No Context: If you have a unique award, make sure to include a brief explanation. For example, “National History Day Competition, First Place, 2023” is better than just “National History Day Competition.”
Tips for Filling Out the Common App Honors Section:
- Be Honest and Accurate: Don’t embellish or exaggerate your achievements. Colleges will be able to verify your information.
- Quality Over Quantity: Don’t list a bunch of minor awards. Focus on your most significant and meaningful achievements.
- Use Clear and Concise Language: Be straightforward and avoid jargon. Admissions officers want to understand what you’ve accomplished.
- Proofread Carefully: Typos and grammatical errors can make your application look sloppy and unprofessional.
The Honors Section: A Window into Your Potential
The Common App Honors section is your opportunity to showcase your academic achievements and demonstrate your potential. It’s a chance to highlight your dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. However, remember, it’s just one small part of your application. Your overall profile, including your grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays, will tell the whole story.
So, don’t stress too much about the Honors section. Focus on showcasing your achievements in a way that reflects your unique personality and potential. And remember, even if you don’t have a laundry list of awards, your genuine passion and commitment will shine through.
Need More Guidance?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App Honors or need help navigating the college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We have a team of experts ready to guide you through every step of the way. We’ve been there – we know the stress of college applications! So, let us help you shine!