Are my extracurriculars that mediocre?

Applying to College
1

Here is a list of my EC’s :

  • founded an exchange program with 25 students in my school with refugees in the middle east to help them practice English for the TOEFL. This is something I’m so passionate about and I loved the program, but in terms of college apps, I don’t think it looks that good.
  • run a math program for 20 kids in the library ( I love teaching and it’s actually one of the most popular programs in the library and I spend a good time on it but it looks hella basic),
  • vocal music (no major competition prizes but I perform and practice a lot)
    -DECA (1st at states and officer)
  • Taekwondo

I genuinely enjoy what I’m doing but I’m also a junior who wants to get into top 20 colleges (esp UCB) and I feel really bad that these extracurriculars are mediocre. Is there anything I can do to improve them? I’m also doing this teaching fellowship called the breakthrough collaborative over the summer- will that add any value?

2

Who says they are mediocre?

3

do what you like and dont worry about colleges

4

I say the first two show leadership! You not only got them going but are continuing to make them successful. WHat is your plan for when you graduate? Who will take them over?

5

It helps to identify a leadership position and/or awards received in your ECs.

6

@bopper we just recruited an officer team, including a sophomore and a junior who will contiunue to coordinate- we are also getting the program approved by our school to become a club
I’m not sure about Math explorers, but I’ll start thinking about it.
@preppedparent I founded the branch of the exchange program, and I founded Math Explorers (so founder, president, etc). I’m running for vice president for DECA as well.

I know these EC’s aren’t amazing, but if I have the SAT and GPA scores (which I think I do, 1560 and 4.0 respectively), and if I write really good essays, do I have a shot at top 20 colleges?

7

Would your senator or someone recognize your service with an award?

8

I don’t think so?

9

Your ECs are very nice. The idea of ECs is to do things you enjoy. You will find colleges that will appreciate you for who you are.

10

You could have a 4.0, 1600, top ECs and still not get into top 20 colleges.

Go ahead an apply to some when the time comes, but spend more time finding affordable matches and safeties you would be delighted to attend.