<p>I am a rising junior and I am competing in a variety of triathlons, 5ks, and a 10k this summer! I would have liked participate in a pre-college program (or something of that nature), but my family cannot afford them. Do you think colleges care that I am not doing something educational with my time?</p>
<p>I’m a rising junior as well, and aside from debate camp, I’m not really doing anything educational. If running is something you truly enjoy and is an EC of yours, participating in races seems like an awesome way to show colleges your passion about it!! Plus, it also seems super fun. We’re high schoolers, after all, so we should be doing some fun stuff. ;)</p>
<p>I think you’ll be fine. If you can volunteer at some races or something- handing out water, helping organize one, etc etc.- then I think that would be even better. Nonetheless, good luck with those races, haha.</p>
<p>Colleges like seeing summer jobs/volunteering. I’ve always thought that the summer college programs are kind of a rip off anyways. </p>
<p>Pre college programs are not necessary and are often times just a way to get your money. Your passion is a plus with the triathlons! If you want to do something educational, you could consider looking into what type of colleges you are interested in and perhaps start studying for the SAT/ACT so you can get them out of the way earlier. Don’t forget if you do well on the PSAT, you may be eligible for the NMF scholarship which can lead to some great merit scholarships at other institutions. Good luck!</p>