Part II: Navigating the Admissions Puzzle: The Surprising Power of Extracurriculars in College Applications

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), “Nearly all undergraduate students who applied to 4-year colleges in fall 2017 reported participating in at least one extracurricular activity during their senior year of high school.” This suggests that extracurricular activities are a great way for college applicants to distinguish themselves from the competition and demonstrate their commitment to furthering their education.

Research has also found that students who participate in extracurricular activities tend to have higher academic performance than those who do not. A study published by the University of Minnesota found that college students involved in extracurriculars had a GPA nearly one full letter grade higher than those who did not, with an average 3.2 compared to 2.3 respectively.

In addition, involvement in extracurricular activities can also help strengthen key skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem solving – all essential qualities employers look for in job candidates. According to Forbes Magazine, "Employers are looking for problem-solvers with strong interpersonal skills; developing these skills can be done through involvement in clubs or organizations on campus." Involvement in student organizations not only gives students valuable experience working together as part of a team but also provides them with valuable networking opportunities and mentorships.

Therefore, it is clear that extracurricular activities offer more than just padding for resumes—they can help college applicants stand out from the crowd and gain valuable skills necessary for success after graduation. - The Surprising Benefits of Extracurricular Activities on College Applications.

A study conducted by the University of Michigan found that participating in extracurricular activities was associated with an increase in overall GPA, as well as grades in math, science, and foreign languages. Furthermore, students with the most extracurricular involvement were found to have significantly higher GPAs than their counterparts without any involvement.

In addition to improved academic performance, involvement in extracurricular activities can also help boost self-esteem, foster leadership abilities and develop social skills. In a survey conducted by Inside Higher Ed, it was discovered that 78% of employers believe that participation in extra-curricular activities is indicative of interpersonal skills such as collaboration and communication. Moreover, many employers noted that they favored candidates who had some level of involvement outside of the classroom because they had demonstrated the ability to balance academics with other commitments.

Explore creative ways to choose the perfect extracurricular activity, whether you're passionate about gaming, ballet, singing, volleyball, psychology, or something entirely different.

Identify your interests and strengths:

Start by making a list of your hobbies, interests, and talents. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and consider unconventional activities or hobbies that showcase your individuality. Consider how you can connect your passions, like gaming, to an extracurricular activity that involves problem-solving, teamwork, or even programming.

Research local opportunities:

Explore clubs, organizations, and classes available in your community that align with your interests. For instance, if you're passionate about ballet, you could join a dance studio, audition for a local ballet company, or even start your own dance club at school. The more options you explore, the more likely you are to find an extracurricular activity that truly excites you.

Combine multiple passions:

Think about how you can combine your interests and talents into one unique extracurricular activity. For example, if you love singing and psychology, consider starting a music therapy group at a local hospital or nursing home. This way, you can showcase your musical skills while also demonstrating your dedication to helping others and learning about psychological concepts.

Create your own extracurricular activity:

If you can't find an existing extracurricular activity that aligns with your interests, why not create your own? For example, if you're passionate about volleyball, you could start a recreational league or coach a youth team. This demonstrates initiative, leadership, and a commitment to your passions – all qualities that colleges love to see.

Volunteer or intern:

Seek out volunteer or internship opportunities related to your passions. This could involve working with a local non-profit, a community theater, or a sports organization. For example, if you're interested in psychology, consider volunteering at a mental health clinic, hospital, or research facility. Volunteering or interning not only demonstrates dedication to your interests but also helps you gain valuable experience and connections in your chosen field.

Showcase your achievements:

Once you've chosen or created the perfect extracurricular activity, make sure to showcase your accomplishments and growth within that activity on your college application. Colleges want to see that you're not only passionate about your interests but that you've also made a tangible impact in your chosen field.

In the competitive world of college admissions, it's crucial to remember that you are more than just a collection of grades and test scores. Embracing your passions through extracurricular activities can be the key to unlocking your true potential and setting yourself apart from the crowd. Colleges want to see students who are genuinely engaged, willing to challenge themselves, and dedicated to making a difference.

So, take a leap of faith, and dive headfirst into the world of extracurriculars. Explore your interests, push your boundaries, and most importantly, be unapologetically true to yourself. In doing so, you'll not only increase your chances of getting into your dream college, but you'll also embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

As Mel Robbins would say, "You have the power right now to change your life." Don't wait any longer; start seeking out those extracurricular activities that will fuel your passions and create lasting memories. Remember, it all begins with that one small step – your own personal "5-4-3-2-1" countdown to a life-changing experience. So, go ahead and embrace your passions, create your legacy, and let your unique light shine in the college admissions process.