Cracking the Code: What to Put in the “Organization” Field on the Common App (and Why It Matters)
Okay, let’s talk about the Common App, that glorious beast of a college application that makes you feel like you’re back in high school, except now you’re drowning in essays and trying to remember if you actually did anything noteworthy in your life.
One of the sections of the Common App that often throws students for a loop is the “Activities” section. It’s where you get to strut your stuff, showcase your extracurriculars, and basically show colleges you’re a well-rounded, interesting individual who doesn’t just exist for the sake of grades. But hold your horses – the “Organization” field can be a bit of a head-scratcher.
You’re probably thinking, “What do I even put here? Should it be the official name of the club? Do I need to be fancy?”
Fear not, my fellow applicant. I’m here to break down the mystery of the “Organization” field and make sure your Common App activities section is dazzling colleges with its sheer awesomeness.
The “Organization” Field: A Deeper Dive
The “Organization” field is the first step in showcasing your extracurriculars. It’s your chance to impress colleges with your diverse interests and involvement. But remember, it’s not just about listing clubs and sports – it’s about telling a story about your passions and how you’ve grown through your experiences.
Here’s the lowdown:
- What to Include: The official name of the organization.
- What Not to Include: Your personal opinions on the organization (save that for the description).
- The 100-Character Limit: Yes, there’s a character limit. If your organization has a name longer than 100 characters, don’t panic. You can use abbreviations (like “NHS” for National Honor Society) or simply include a shorter, more descriptive version of the organization’s name. (Think “Environmental Club” instead of “The Earth-Saving Eco-Warriors Club”).
Pro-Tip: Remember, colleges want to know what you do, not just what you belong to. So, make sure your “Organization” field is clear, concise, and easily understood.
The “Organization” Field: Examples
Here are some examples of how to approach the “Organization” field:
- Example 1: Instead of “The International Baccalaureate Club,” you could simply say “IB Club.”
- Example 2: Instead of “The Student Government Association,” you could use “Student Government.”
- Example 3: Instead of “The Ultimate Frisbee Team,” you could simply use “Ultimate Frisbee Team.”
Remember: Keep it simple, keep it concise, and keep it clear!
The “Organization” Field: The Art of Explanation
Sometimes, your organization may not be a household name. Don’t fret! This is where your ability to explain comes into play. You can add a brief description in parenthesis after the organization’s name, but keep it concise.
Here’s how to do it:
- Example 1: “Environmental Club (Advocacy Group)”
- Example 2: “Andy’s Club (Environmental Club)”
- Example 3: “Student Government (High School)”
Pro-Tip: Instead of calling your club “The Awesome Club,” consider a more descriptive name like “The Awesome Science Club” or “The Awesome Debate Club”. This will give colleges a better understanding of your interests.
The “Organization” Field: Beyond the Basics
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s dive a bit deeper. Remember, the “Organization” field is just the first step. Your “Description” field is where you really get to shine.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Focus on Your Role: What did you do in this organization? Did you lead a group? Were you the treasurer? Did you help plan events?
- Use Action Verbs: Don’t be afraid to use strong verbs to describe your accomplishments. Instead of saying “I helped with fundraising,” say “Led fundraising efforts that raised $1,000 for a local charity.”
- Be Specific: Provide concrete examples. Instead of saying “I was involved in the school newspaper,” say “Wrote and edited articles for the school newspaper, including a feature on the importance of STEM education.”
- Show, Don’t Tell: Use your description to show colleges what you’re capable of. Don’t just tell them you’re a good leader – prove it with examples.
The “Organization” Field: The Bottom Line
The “Organization” field is your chance to showcase your involvement in extracurricular activities, but remember, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Your “Description” field is where you really get to tell your story. Be clear, concise, and specific, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.
The “Organization” Field: Beyond the College App
The “Organization” field is not just about college applications. It’s a valuable skill to have in many areas of life. From writing your resume to networking with people, knowing how to describe your experiences clearly and concisely can make a big difference.
The “Organization” Field: Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling stuck on how to fill out the “Organization” field, or if you need help with any other part of the college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JobLoving! We’re here to help you navigate the often confusing world of college applications. We can provide you with personalized support, guidance, and resources to help you create a compelling application that showcases your best self.