Chinese Laundry

Applying to College
1

Hi,

My name is Matt Ng, and I am currently a Junior attending Stuyvesant HS in NYC. I have a quick question that has been bothering my lately. I was not able to develop many of my Extra Curriculars until now because I was obligated to help both my parents at their Chinese Laundromat outside of Manhattan (Queens). Hence for around 4 years, I have worked diligently after school, on Saturdays, and during the summer to help earn a living (without getting paid of course) for my family. I have exactly 3136 hours (give or take a few) logged in and I was wondering how much weight that would hold over my non existant after school extra curricular involvement?
Does it more than make up for it? Hold equal footing? Not make up for anything at all? Your responses are greatly appreciated.

2

<p>I know that a lot of schools have specific sections on their applications where they ask you to explain any situations that might have affected your ECs. </p>

<p>Also, your work experience might make for an interesting essay. I’m sure you have some funny stories to tell by now :D</p>

3

<p>This will be taken into account and should definately compensate for lack of EC’s. But be sure to explain your family obligation. I would put in under jobs, even though you were not paid. And I’d put it in a note in the extra info section as well.</p>