ECs and volunteering...

mikemac
Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:28:36 +0000

at the top schools like the ones you mention, they are looking for more than “participant”. The strongest apps show leadership and achievement. Tacking on some hours this summer in volunteer work isn’t going to stand out. Focus on the things you’re already doing and try to take them to the next level. For example instead of just playing in concerts for the community & elderly, be involved is scheduling them, raising money to fund them, etc. As Stanford says in its FAQ

In addition to academic excellence and intellectual vitality, we are interested in students who have made significant contributions to the life of their school or community. We do not favor one type of activity over another; nor is it necessary to participate in a large number of activities. An exceptional experience in one or two activities demonstrates your passion more than minimal participation in five or six clubs. We want to see the impact your participation has had on that club, in your school, or in the larger community. With extracurricular activities, a sustained depth of commitment is more important than a long list of clubs you have joined.