Pursue Your Passions: Extracurricular Activities Baltimore MD

Pursue Your Passions: Extracurricular Activities

By Howard and Matthew Greene 

Excelling outside of class is one of the most important things you can do to differentiate yourself in the college-admission process. It’s also important for your personal development. Experiencing success and failure, trying new things, taking on a leadership challenge, working with different kinds of people, pursuing your own initiatives, taking risks — these are all important for your growth, learning, and confidence. Of course, it’s also important for you to balance your time and not get overwhelmed. 

How much is enough…or too much?
There is no one “right” or “wrong” activity to engage in. A student who does 8 million community service and volunteer activities will often ask whether she needs to play a sport to get into college. A tri-sport athlete asks whether he needs to do some service or have a job. There’s no clear answer. Some students are able to be involved in multiple activities of different kinds, and they enjoy it. Others like the focus of intense involvement in one or two key areas, and should feel good about showing leadership and initiative. 

Whatever you do, try to take it to the next level and search for opportunities to expand and deepen your involvement. Remember to keep your eye on your academic courses and grades, though, since they are the cornerstone of any college application. 

Hidden sources of inspiration
Ready to get involved? Look beyond...

Author: Amy Ambler

2009 Peterson's, A Nelnet Company. All Rights Reserved

Click here to read more from Petersons