The Common App’s Position/Leadership Description: A Guide to Avoiding the “Member” Trap
So, you’re tackling the Common App, that monument to college applications, and you’ve reached the dreaded “Position/Leadership Description” field. The 50-character limit stares back at you, and your brain screams, “How do I cram my entire life into this tiny box?!”
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This little space can feel like a Bermuda Triangle for your accomplishments. But fear not, my fellow applicant, because I’m here to guide you through the treacherous waters of this field and help you emerge victorious (and maybe even impress a college admissions officer or two).
First Things First: It’s Not Just a Job Title
The “Position/Leadership Description” field isn’t just about listing your job title. It’s a chance to showcase your skills, responsibilities, and impact. Think of it as a mini-resume within the Common App.
The “Member” Syndrome: A Cautionary Tale
Remember, you have 50 characters. You can do better than “Member” or “Volunteer.” The name of the game here is specificity, my friend. You want to leave a lasting impression, not disappear into the abyss of generic descriptions.
Crafting a Winning Description: The Art of the 50 Character Limit
Let’s break down the art of crafting a compelling description:
- Think Action Verbs: Forget “Member,” go for “Treasurer,” “Co-Founder,” “Lead Organizer.” This instantly adds a layer of responsibility and ownership to your extracurriculars.
- Highlight Leadership: If you held a leadership role, make it clear! “Captain” or “President” are your best friends in this field.
- Use Keywords: Think about the skills you want to emphasize. Words like “Led,” “Managed,” “Developed,” and “Organized” will help paint a picture of your capabilities.
- Keep It Concise: You only have 50 characters, so be ruthless with your words. Every syllable counts!
- Tailor It: Consider the specific college you’re applying to. If you’re applying to a business school, highlight your entrepreneurial experiences. If it’s a science program, emphasize your research or leadership in science clubs.
Common App Position/Leadership Descriptions: Examples That Shine
Here are some examples of how to craft effective “Position/Leadership Descriptions” that will stand out:
- Example 1: Instead of “Member, Debate Club,” you could write “Debate Team Captain.” This instantly highlights your leadership role and your passion for persuasive arguments.
- Example 2: If you were a “Volunteer at the local soup kitchen,” consider “Lead Kitchen Organizer” or “Volunteer Coordinator.” This shows initiative and organizational skills.
- Example 3: “President of the Environmental Club” is far more impactful than “Member, Environmental Club.” This clearly identifies your leadership position and dedication to environmental sustainability.
For the Non-Traditional Activities, Think Outside the Box
Remember, extracurriculars can go beyond traditional clubs and organizations. Family responsibilities, part-time jobs, and even personal projects can be valuable experiences.
Crafting Descriptions for Family Responsibilities
Let’s face it, being a responsible sibling or helping a grandparent is no small feat! Here’s how to showcase your family responsibilities on the Common App:
- Focus on the Skills: Highlight qualities like responsibility, organization, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
- Use Action Verbs: Instead of simply saying “Family Caregiver,” you could write “Organized Family Schedule” or “Provided Daily Care for Sibling.”
- Quantify Your Impact: If possible, use numbers to illustrate your commitment. For example, “Prepared Meals 4+ Days/Week” or “Managed Household Tasks 3 Days/Week.”
Turning a Part-Time Job into a Powerful Statement
Even a part-time job can be turned into a valuable experience. Don’t underestimate the power of work experience!
- Emphasize Your Role: Be specific about your contributions. “Cashier” is okay, but “Lead Cashier” or “Customer Service Representative” is better.
- Showcase Soft Skills: Did your job involve teamwork, problem-solving, or communication? Highlight these skills in your description.
- Quantify Your Success: Did you exceed sales goals? Did you receive positive customer feedback? Use quantifiable examples to demonstrate your impact.
Remember, the Common App Is a Story
Your Common App is a story about who you are, what you’ve done, and where you’re going. Use every field, including the position/leadership description, to create a narrative that showcases your strengths, passion, and potential.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative
Remember, the Common App is a platform for you to express yourself. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your descriptions. As long as you’re authentic and honest, you’ll be able to craft compelling descriptions that will make a lasting impression.
Need More Help? Connect With the JobLoving Community
If you need further help crafting your Common App position/leadership descriptions or have any questions about the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community! We’re here to support you every step of the way.