Understanding Which Extracurricular Activities Colleges Value the Most

College admissions officers want to find students who stand out from the rest. While good grades and test scores are important, they also want to see a well-rounded applicant. One way to achieve this is by participating in extracurricular activities. However, not all extracurricular activities are created equal. In this blog post, we will delve into which extracurricular activities colleges emphasize the most.


1. Leadership Positions:
Colleges value students who take on leadership roles in extracurricular activities, as they demonstrate the ability to motivate others and take charge. Consequently, students who become club presidents, team captains, or editors of school publications stand out in the admissions process. Furthermore, leadership roles provide students with valuable skills such as communication, decision-making, and problem-solving.

2. Community Service:
Community service is another extracurricular activity that colleges hold in high regard. Admissions officers like to see students who volunteer because it demonstrates that they care about their communities and are willing to give back. Additionally, community service projects are an excellent way for students to learn important life skills, like compassion, empathy, and teamwork.

3. Sports:
Participating in sports is one of the most popular extracurricular activities, and for a good reason. Sports not only help students stay physically active but also teach valuable lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, and time management. Additionally, students who participate in sports often develop strong relationships with their teammates, coaches, and fans, thus creating a sense of community.

4. Fine Arts:
The Fine Arts encompass a wide range of disciplines, including music, theater, and visual arts. Many colleges value these extracurricular activities because they help students develop their creative sides and express themselves in unique ways. Participating in the fine arts can also lead to opportunities to attend prestigious performing or visual arts schools, which can significantly enhance a student's college application.

5. Academic Clubs:
Finally, academic clubs are another popular extracurricular activity that colleges value. Rachel Rubin, the Director of Undergraduate Admission at Brandeis University, explains that academic clubs "show dedication to a particular subject, which can help point to the student's potential major in college." Additionally, students who participate in academic clubs have the opportunity to compete in academic competitions, which can lead to scholarships and awards.

In conclusion, extracurricular activities play a significant role in the college admissions process. However, not all extracurricular activities are created equal. Colleges value students who take on leadership roles, engage in community service, participate in sports, express themselves through fine arts, or dedicate themselves to academic pursuits. Therefore, it's essential for students to find extracurricular activities that they enjoy and can excel in, rather than just trying to fill their college applications with numerous activities. By focusing on a few activities that truly matter, students can showcase their unique talents and ultimately impress college admissions officers.