What Does “Athletics: Club” Mean on the Common App? A Guide to Navigating College Applications Like a Pro
Hey there, future college applicant! You’re in the thick of it, wading through the murky waters of the Common App, and you’ve stumbled upon a tricky question: what exactly does “Athletics: Club” mean, and how does it differ from “Athletics: JV/Varsity”? Let’s break it down, because navigating the Common App is like trying to explain the rules of football to a cat – it’s confusing and no one really understands it.
First, let’s tackle those two “Athletics” categories:
- Athletics: JV/Varsity: This is the clear-cut option for those who played on an official, school-sanctioned team with a coach, uniforms, and a schedule. Think of it as the “official” sports scene, where everyone knows the rules and the stakes are high. This is for the “varsity-level” players, the ones who are trying to get a scholarship or prove their athletic prowess.
- Athletics: Club: This category is for all the other sports activities that don’t fit neatly into the “official” mold. Think of this as the “wildcard” category, where you can list all sorts of activities, ranging from a casual running group to a competitive, yet unofficial, fencing team. It’s like the “we’re not really sure what this is, but we’re doing it” category.
So, what does this mean for your situation?
You practiced a sport, but it wasn’t on a school team. You were in a sports complex, maybe with some instructors, but there was no official team, coach, or uniforms. This sounds like a perfect fit for “Athletics: Club.” Think of it as a “we’re all in this together” kind of situation, where you’re passionate about your sport, but don’t have the official backing of a school team.
Think of it this way:
- Athletics: JV/Varsity is like being on the school football team, where everyone knows who you are and you have your official jersey and helmet.
- Athletics: Club is like joining a local running group, where you’re just a bunch of people who like to run and have some fun.
Here’s some more information to help you make the right decision:
- Consider the Level of Competition: If you were competing at a high level, even without a school team, “Athletics: Club” might be the better choice. If you were more casual, or just starting out, you might consider listing it as a “Personal Commitment,” which is another option on the Common App.
- Think About the Funding: Varsity teams often receive funding from the school, while club teams are usually self-funded. If your activity didn’t receive funding from the school, “Athletics: Club” is definitely the way to go.
- Focus on the Impact: Did your participation in this sport teach you valuable lessons about teamwork, discipline, or dedication? No matter how you categorize it on the Common App, make sure to highlight the impact it had on you, and what you learned from it.
Remember, the Common App is all about showcasing your unique strengths and experiences. Don’t stress too much about the perfect category for your activity. Just be honest about what you did, how it impacted you, and let your passion shine through!
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the jungle of the Common App, don’t despair! There are plenty of resources available to help you navigate this crazy process. And if all else fails, you can always reach out to a college counselor or admissions advisor for some personalized guidance.
The Common App is like a jungle, but with a little bit of effort and a lot of laughter, you’ll find your way through! Good luck!