“Current Experience” on the Common App: A Guide to Navigating the “What Have You Been Up To?” Section
Hey there, future college stars! So, you’re diving into the Common App, that glorious beast of an application that can either be your ticket to your dream school or… well, let’s just say it’s not always a smooth ride. You’re probably staring at the “Activities” section, scratching your head and wondering, “What exactly does ‘current experience’ mean?”
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This question hangs in the air like a bad smell in a crowded dorm room. It’s like the Common App is whispering, “Tell us everything about your life, but just a little bit, and make it sound super impressive.”
Let’s break down this whole “current experience” thing, shall we?
The “Current Experience” is like a “What’s New, Pussycat?” of your Life
Think of it this way: The Common App is like a nosy neighbor who wants to know what you’ve been up to lately. They want to see if you’ve been busy, if you’ve learned anything, and if you’ve grown as a person. They’re not really interested in what you did in kindergarten (unless you were the inventor of the first-ever playground slide made of pure chocolate – then, feel free to brag).
The Common App’s Activities Section Wants the Goods
The “Activities” section is where you showcase your awesome self, highlighting all the things you’ve been doing outside of the classroom. It’s your chance to tell the colleges, “Hey, I’m not just a bookworm! I’ve got skills, talents, and a life outside of textbooks!”
What Does “Current” Really Mean?
The “current experience” part is a little tricky. It’s not like the Common App is asking for a detailed history of your life. They’re really more interested in what you’re currently doing, or have been doing recently. Think of it as a snapshot of your current life, showcasing what you’re passionate about and what you’re good at.
Here’s the Breakdown:
- Focus on Your Junior Year: If you’re applying to college in the fall of your senior year, your junior year is the sweet spot for “current experience.” This is because you’re still actively doing these things, and it gives the colleges a good idea of what you’re like now, not just what you were like a few years ago.
- Senior Year Activities: Don’t be afraid to include things you’re doing in your senior year, even if you haven’t started them yet. This shows initiative and ambition. Just be honest about the dates and what you’re planning to do.
- Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff: You don’t need to list every single thing you’ve ever done. Pick the activities that are most meaningful to you and that demonstrate your skills and interests. Remember, quality over quantity!
What to Include in Your “Current Experience”
- Extracurricular Activities: This includes clubs, sports, music, drama, volunteer work, and any other activities you’re involved in.
- Work Experience: Part-time jobs, internships, or even volunteer work at a local organization can all be included.
- Research: If you’re involved in research projects, either through school or through a volunteer organization, this is a great thing to highlight.
- Personal Commitments: This could include things like caring for family members, being involved in community groups, or pursuing hobbies.
Describing Your Experiences: The Art of the “Impact” Statement
So, you’ve got your list of awesome experiences. Now, how do you describe them in a way that makes the admissions folks say, “Wow, this kid is impressive!”?
- Keep It Concise: The Common App gives you a limited number of characters for each description, so make every word count.
- Focus on Impact: Don’t just list your responsibilities. Instead, emphasize what you learned, how you grew, and how the experience impacted you. Think about the skills you developed, the challenges you faced, and the lessons you learned.
- Show, Don’t Tell: You want to use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your impact. For instance, instead of saying, “I learned teamwork,” you could say, “As a member of the debate team, I learned the importance of collaboration by working with my teammates to prepare for competitions and strategize our arguments.”
A Few More Tips to Make Your “Current Experience” Shine:
- Be Honest: Don’t inflate your accomplishments or make things up. Colleges can and do check your information.
- Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your descriptions. Don’t be afraid to show your passion and enthusiasm.
- Proofread Carefully: Typos and grammatical errors can make you look sloppy and unprofessional. Always double-check your work before submitting your application.
The Common App: Your Chance to Showcase Your “Extra-Curricular Extraordinariness”
Remember, the “Current Experience” section is your chance to show colleges who you are beyond the grades and test scores. It’s your opportunity to share your passions, your accomplishments, and your growth as a person. So, think of it as your personal highlight reel, and make it a showstopper!
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App activities, don’t worry! There are tons of resources available to help you. Check out the Common App website, talk to your guidance counselor, or even reach out to a college admissions expert.
And, if you’re looking for a community of students who are going through the same thing, check out the JobLoving community! We’re here to help you with all your college application woes. Good luck, and happy applying!