| I sort of disagree. I think a LAC, especially a top one, sort of expect their applicants to have a passion for reading and to do a lot of reading for pleasure during their own spare time. If we're talking top LACs like Amherst and Williams and Swarthmore, I wholeheartedly believe they view ECs in the same manner that a HYP would.
I think in either case -- LAC vs. bigger university -- it seems that collegebound would strongly consider an English or literature major. Sharing a strong love of reading fiction (and citing recently read books, favorites, etc) is fitting in a blurb or essay about what he/she wants to do at that given college. I think in this setting, an adcom would be impressed by the depth into which collegebound reads.
I'm passionate about books and films, and I never thought of listing it at an EC. I think a lot of students, regardless of LAC vs. university, are avid readers. Instead I started a film club at my high school which started out small but grew tremendously where we were able to discuss films. It wasn't curing cancer or doing anything on a national stage, but it showed initiative. Collegebound, if there's no book club at your high school-- start one! I'd personally love to sit around and discuss lit with you- you seem like one of the more knowledgable students! |