The Best Extracurricular Activities to Boost Your College Application

Applying to college can feel like trying to get the attention of your favorite teacher in a crowded classroom. Grades and test scores are important, but they’re not the only things that college admissions officers look for when they’re deciding who gets a spot on campus. Extracurricular activities are a powerful way to boost your college application and show admissions committees that you’re more than just a set of grades.

So, why read this article? Whether you’re aiming for an Ivy League school, a college near home, or any other college campus, this guide will show you which extracurriculars can help make your college application stand out.

We want to help simplify your college application process and make your educational goals a reality. Let’s break down the best activities to boost your college application and give you some ideas on how to shine outside the classroom!

How Can Extracurricular Activities Boost Your College Application?

Extracurricular activities help colleges see the “real you” and can be the perfect way to make your college application stand out. Admissions officers love applicants who are well-rounded, and participating in extracurricular activities shows colleges that you’ve developed skills, a solid work ethic, and passions outside of academic subjects.

When admissions committees review applications, they’re looking for applicants who show dedication and commitment. Whether you’re a high school student who loves community service, playing a sport, or joining academic clubs, these activities tell colleges that you’re ready to contribute to college life and thrive in new environments.

What Extracurriculars Do Colleges Like to See?

Colleges and universities each have their own preferences, but they generally like to see applicants with a mix of different types of activities. This can include sports, academic clubs, community service activities, internships, and summer programs. Admissions officers at colleges across the board love to see high school students who have taken the time to explore their interests and make a difference.

Consider which extracurriculars might best fit your interests, goals, and the story you want to tell in your college application. Many high schools offer a variety of clubs and activities, so find ones that excite you and stick with them.

The most impressive extracurricular experience is one you’re genuinely passionate about. With an increasingly competitive college admission process, being able to show that you have what the college is looking for in a student is imperative. This means taking part in extracurricular activities for college before you begin the application process. 

 Are Volunteer Activities Good for College Applications?

Absolutely! Volunteer activities are a great way to show college admissions officers that you care about your community and are committed to giving back. Colleges want students who will positively contribute to campus life, and there’s no better way to prove this than through community service. Colleges love to see community minded individuals. 

Community service activities also allow you to develop important skills, like leadership, empathy, and communication, which can boost your college application. Colleges and universities love to see applicants who have spent their high school career helping others.

If you’re wondering what type of volunteer activities to choose, think about causes that resonate with you. Whether it’s helping at a local shelter, organizing food drives, or tutoring, find a way to give back that’s meaningful to you. A good letter of recommendation, especially from a community service organization, always looks good on a college application. 

 Can Summer Activities Boost Your College Application?

Yes! Summer activities, especially structured summer programs, are an excellent way to show that you’re proactive about learning. Many colleges offer summer programs that high school students can attend to get a taste of college classes and college life.

Some programs even allow you to earn college credits, which can give you a head start. This is a great way to really stand out on college applications and make sure admissions notices you. 

Another option is a summer job or internship. Not only does this give you real-world experience, but it also demonstrates maturity and a strong work ethic, two traits’ admissions officers look for.

Plus, who doesn’t like a little extra cash? Participating in summer activities that will boost your college application can set you apart by showing that you’re using your free time productively.

What Role Does an Internship Play in College Applications?

Internships are an impressive addition to any college application. They give you hands-on experience in a specific field, which can help you determine your future career path and impress college admissions committees. Internships are particularly beneficial if they relate to your intended major or college career path.

Let’s say you’re applying to college with a strong interest in environmental science. Interning at a local conservation center or participating in community service focused on environmental education could not only boost your college application but also show admissions officers that you’re serious about pursuing your goals.

How Do Academic Clubs and School Clubs Help?

Academic clubs and school clubs allow high school students to explore interests, work in teams, and even take on leadership roles. Participating in academic clubs can also demonstrate your passion for certain academic subjects, something colleges like to see. If you’re considering a future in business, joining a school club like DECA or FBLA shows initiative and dedication.

Being involved in clubs can help make your application stand out because they show colleges that you’re interested in expanding your knowledge. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who take the initiative to get involved in high school activities beyond their studies, as it indicates a well-rounded student ready to take on college life.

Does Participating in Sports Help Your College Application?

Playing a sport in high school can be a big plus on your college application, especially if it’s something you’re truly committed to. Many colleges look for students who have participated in sports because it shows discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or swimming, sports can demonstrate that you’re dedicated and able to balance academics with physical activities.

For high school students looking to impress college admissions, a long-term commitment to a sport shows reliability and perseverance, qualities that admissions committees value.

Plus, if you’re interested in college sports, having an impressive athletic background could even open doors to scholarships or recruitment opportunities. Remember, college applicants who take part in extracurricular activities in high school have a greater chance of being noticed when they apply for college. 

Are Summer Programs a Good Idea?

Enrolling in a summer program can be one of the best ways to boost your college application. Pre-college summer programs and after-school activities, such as a Harvard summer program, offer students a chance to learn at a college level, meet students from other schools, and explore new academic subjects. These programs give you an idea of what college courses will be like, helping you gain valuable skills before stepping onto a college campus.

Summer college programs allow students to show admissions committees that they’re committed to growth and learning, even when school isn’t in session. While you may not love the idea of having to spend your summer in a classroom to attend a summer program, you need to determine what your long term goals for college are. Many colleges and universities also love seeing students participate in these activities because it shows initiative and a love of learning. 

How Many Extracurriculars Are Enough?

You don’t need a laundry list of activities on your college application to make an impression. In fact, admissions officers prefer to see commitment and depth in a few areas rather than brief participation in many extracurriculars. Colleges like to see applicants who have devoted time and energy to certain activities rather than spreading themselves thin.

The best approach? Choose a few extracurricular activities that you’re passionate about, stick with them, and try to take on a leadership role if possible. Many high school students take time to check out the colleges they're interested in, and then they focus on the extracurricular activities that will be best for their goals with college. This demonstrates dedication and leadership qualities that are bound to impress college admissions committees.

Final Tips for Choosing Extracurriculars That Impress College Admissions

When it comes to picking extracurricular activities, follow your interests. Admissions committees can tell when students are genuinely interested in their activities versus those who only joined to look good on paper. Be authentic! Choose activities that make you excited, ones you’d participate in even if no one was watching.

Ultimately, your high school career should be about exploring interests and building skills that prepare you for college and beyond. The best extracurriculars for college applications are those that reflect who you are and the person you’re becoming.

Remember, colleges are looking for students who will contribute to their campuses and engage in college life. When you’re ready to get started on your college journey, and need help with admissions or academic counseling, be sure to contact our team to have a one-on-one consult for the guidance you need. 

Key Takeaways: Making Your Application Stand Out

When you want to make sure that you get your college application noticed, be sure to participate in activities outside of your regular class schedule, keep these things in mind:

• Choose meaningful extracurricular activities: Colleges like to see dedication and passion in extracurricular activities that reflect your interests and values.

• Community service activities show empathy and commitment, which impresses admissions officers.

• Summer programs and internships are excellent for hands-on learning and career exploration, which boost your college application.

• Sports and academic clubs demonstrate discipline, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity, making your application stand out.

• Avoid packing your application with too many extracurriculars; depth and commitment are more impressive to college admissions committees.

Whether you’re looking to gain admission into your dream school or just trying to make the most of your high school experience, participating in after-school activities to boost your application can make a big difference. Find activities you love, stick with them, and let your unique strengths shine through in your college application!