Extracurriculars—What Counts?
You’ve learned plenty in your last four years. Most people think about knowledge within a traditional classroom setting, but you’ve gained insight into yourself and the world in other realms of your life as well. That is why we value your extracurriculars. What you do with your time outside of class can tell us a lot about your interests. So, what counts?
Do you have a job? Do you work at your family business after school? That counts! A job gives you a new view on the world. My experience bussing tables for a retirement community transformed my time in high school. I learned from the stories passed down to me from the residents and I started understanding how to manage my own money. Your time working, no matter the industry, has taught you something new.
Do you play an instrument? Very cool, that counts! Even if you practice a few hours a week, reflect that in your application. We want to make sure we understand where you are spending your time
Do you take care of a sibling? Wow, that’s a huge responsibility! Be sure to document that. If you feel like helping your family takes up a large amount of your time, then please let us know.
Do you attend religious services? Count it! Involvement in a religious community takes commitment. You are pursuing something outside of your formal school setting.
Do you have a hobby like metal detecting, drawing, or something else that is an independent pursuit? Tell us about it! Your school might not offer an opportunity for you to pursue one of your passions. Developing and advancing a skill on your own takes initiative - be sure to tell us about it in your description of the extracurricular.
Do you watch Netflix? Awesome, I’m glad you give yourself a chance to relax! However, we do not see that as an extracurricular. Everyone needs time to decompress. That could be playing video games or catching up on the latest show (Sabrina, anyone?). I hope that all of you give yourself a mental break and remember that not everything you do has to count towards your college applications.
Most of your pursuits outside of school are an extracurricular, just be sure to give us details in the description. Go forth and enjoy your time outside of class! Don’t stress about whether something will look good on a college application - we want you to do you and follow your interests, no matter if that’s a sport, learning a language, writing your own novel, or helping your family.