<p>I include it in every post, so here we go. Im getting out of the Marine Corps in Oct. 21, 2012. Basically, I have a year and five or so months to get things in order for college. Going off the assumption that I will have a good amount of free time (especially weekends), I want to get as many EC activities as I can, including volunteer work and anything else.</p>
<p>But I need some ideas. My passion is fitness and health. Naturally, I want my EC to be something involved with those. My major is going to Kinesiology. What are some things I could do? Would, let say, getting my certifications in Crossfit beneficial? Im sort of lost on what to do in terms of EC, since im not in high school anymore.</p>
<p>You seem to feel that ECs will assist you in college admissions, right? Few colleges that offers Kinesiology will give any weight to an applicant’s ECs. As a matter of fact, very few colleges in general give weight to them – only the very selective colleges do. I suggest going over the admissions criteria of your target schools – you’ll most likely see what I’m talking about.</p>
<p>That being said, choose ECs that will enhance you, your enjoyment and will contribute to the community around you – but not to look good to colleges. They just want someone who can handle the coursework and is motivated to finish the program.</p>
<p>Crossfit and other certifications are useful for fitness professionals. If you want to go for it, that’s fine. But not necessary. My wife is a big time personal trainer, course instructor and manages a gym. She has ACE certification and many years in the fitness industry – but was an English major in college.</p>
<p>Thanks for the quick response. I emailed the school I will attend (I think positive : P ) with some questions. Also read over their admissions requirements. Good idea on doing stuff that I have interests in. I guess a few grand in Crossfit certs wouldnt be too bad, as well as my Brazilian Ju Jitsu. Appreciate the ideas, definently a big help in planning out.</p>
<p>The colleges and universities that care about ECs use them to evaluate the leadership potential and drive of high school students. You aren’t a high school student. You are a US Marine. You are a completely different category of student altogether.</p>
<p>I know that the Veterans Forum is not as active as a lot of others, and that it is hidden inside “Specialty College Admissions Topics”, but it is probably worth a visit. There you will find advice that is useful in your situation. [Veterans</a> - College Confidential](<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/veterans/]Veterans”>Veterans - College Confidential Forums)</p>
<p>Many thanks, and all good wishes for much success in your civilian life!</p>