How important are Extra Curricular Activities?

janey2478
Wed, 09 Dec 2009 20:27:24 +0000

I’m planning on applying to some highly selective colleges too. (ex. Columbia, UPenn, Georgetow, NYU, Brown, Stanford, etc)

I don’t want to sound too negative, but pretty much all the applicants have high GPA and standarized test scores like you. That’s where extracurriculars and personal essays come in handy.

Admissions comm. wants to see that you’ve been involved in clubs/activities that you’re passionate about. And, they want to see that you’ve been part of that club/comm for a very long time.

For example, I’ve been in Amnesty International, AIDS Awareness Committee, choir and senior/marching band from grade 9 until now. In addition, I’m head of all the clubs I’m part of.

Even if you can create your own club, this would impress the admissions comm.

Good luck!