This is mostly a general question, but for what its worth, my gpa is around a 3.98, and I’ve got good extracurriculars for my intended major. I wouldn’t like to expand on these any further.
One of my biggest “hooks” (i think that’s what it’s called here) is that I’m a musician. I’ve worked with independent labels and I’m pretty involved with the scene beyond just releasing music. The issue is that while my music is not thematically transgressive, a lot of related artists are. Is this a bad thing? Would a college be understanding after seeing that I can involve myself in the punk scene while also being passionate about academic stuff too?
I’d also like to add on to the fact that making music is a great portion of what I spend my time on. A lot of punk is DIY and rough around the edges, but I’ve taught myself how to mix, master, write, record, etc. etc. and I put a great deal of thought into the process. I don’t quite make punk music, but by virtue of my politics and the kinds of music I listen to and enjoy its easier to work with people from this sort of place.
This sounds like a great EC, and something you are doing well. But I don’t think it’s a “hook”. There are thousands of students applying to colleges who do various levels of music as an EC. And that is terrific. But it’s not exactly unique.
I think your experiences are excellent…and might be able to be woven into a great essay about this.
Your music isn’t so much a “hook” (something that fulfills institutional priorities) as it is a “spike” (an activity that requires an exceptional degree of dedication and time, with results to show for it). But I guarantee you that more than a few AOs will think a punk rocker will be the absolute coolest kind of student to admit, so don’t be shy about it!
I hope you will consider a music supplement to your applications with a sample of your music (recording/video), music resume/description of activities/recordings etc. and a letter or two of recommendation related to music if appropriate. These art supplements are not limited to classical music.
There are scholarly books and college courses on punk culture. I don’t think that would be at all negative for your application. American Hardcore Punk
definitley not, haha!! and my music is mostly instrumental, so we’re in the clear there as well! Thanks for all the awesome replies, this was super encouraging
Some of the selective colleges have really diversified their music curriculum for diversity in genre and more access for different musical backgrounds. And creativity, hard work are highly valued. Good luck!