Question:
I have above average extracurricular activities and community
service. This would be good for most people but I am looking for things
that will set me apart. I'm a junior this year so I have a year to
strengthen my resume. My academics are pretty good. I just want some
advice on what things I could do during the school year and the summer
to really strengthen my college resume and make it stand out. Of course
there are regular extracuriculars and community service but are there
better or more unique things I could do?
Answer:
-It's true that an unusual activity like champion sky diver will probably
attract notice. But this is also your life you're talking about.
The absolutely most effective thing you can do to open college doors is
take the strongest program of courses in school that you can handle and
pull the best grades you can. It means not dropping courses in key areas
like math, language, English, history, science. Consider academic classes
+ homework to be your 40-hour-a week job.
Why? Because colleges put eagerness to learn at the top of their list of
things they look for. And the rock pile of everyday accomplishment in
classes is how they make that judgment.
As far as activities are concerned, why not do things you enjoy, things
you can really make a contribution to, and really excel?
Mostly it doesn't matter much what you choose as long as it's things you
can get your teeth into. It could be sports, a school or community or
church activity, a volunteer or paid job, a hobby.
Whatever you do, it should show real growth or real contribution on your part.
Activities that simply mean showing up now and then or getting a line on
your resume for doing not much don't help. College have been around the
block, and they know what's real and what's just inflated.
The bottom line is that playing square with yourself is probably the best
course. And for most of us, there's no way to slide into a 'reach'
college ‹ except by reaching.
-One thing to start looking for are local internships at companies with high
profiles. I can't tell whether or not these would be available to you since
you do not state whether or not you live in a rural or urban setting. Run
for leadership positions even if you think that you have no chance of
getting them. Simply by putting yourself out on the line (if you are this
type of person) and into the spotlight, under the scrutiny of your whole
class or ASB, shows a certain characteristic that can set you apart from the
rest of the crowd. Get involved in 1 or 2 activities that you can really be
dedicated to like Model UN, International Club, etc. The simple thing is to
get involved now and don't make it look like you joined 10 clubs this year
so that you can include it on an activities resume for your college apps.
Admissions officers will latch on to this really quick and see. Dedicate
yourself, have a life, but don't spread yourself too thin. Good luck!!
Also, if you are thinking about applying to any really selective schools, I
recommend purchasing "A is for Admission" by Michele A. Hernandez. It is a
great book about the application process at most really selective schools
and what to do to prepare yourself (in your case) for the process.
