Extracurriculars

Students should be aware that colleges want to see applicants who have been actively involved in high school, either through school related or community based activities. It is important for students to realize that each year “counts” and they should plan to get involved early in their freshman year. As past volunteers at our high school’s College and Career Center, we have collected a lot of information over the years about community service, awards and competitions, and internships and jobs. If you are interesting in learning more about opportunities for your student, we can create a plan for your student or offer suggestions if you sign up for our services by contacting us.

As you get involved, look for leadership opportunities. Depth of involvement and leadership activities are something that colleges are looking for. Additionally, you will need leadership roles in order to obtain membership in some high school clubs like the National Honor Society.

Find an extracurricular activity that supports your interests and offers you the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of a subject matter or to enhance and improve skills. Participating in activities or competitions relating to music, art, sports, biology, chemistry, math, or other areas in which you are interested will allow you to develop a skill set, compete against peers, work with a mentor, and learn important time management skills. For example, creating a science fair project that you can continue to pursue and enhance, allows you to work with a mentor, develop a deeper understanding of a subject matter, develop and enhance scientific skills, and compete against your peers. If you achieve high levels in either your area of interest will enhance your desirability as an applicant to college. All these types of activities will benefit you personally and will help make you a well-rounded person.

No matter what your interest, find a way to participate and get the most out of what you choose to participate in. Not only will you personally gain a lot from your participation, you also will enhance your college application because of your deep and meaningful activities.