I am new here, and I apologize if this is not the place to post something like this.
I just really need your help, guys!
I am a junior attending an international school in Korea and want to attend the top 20 schools or schools of similar selectivity.
I have a GPA and test scores ready for top colleges, and I’ve done some extracurriculars within my school community (student gov’t president, club association president, science club president, etc.,).
However, I am extremely concerned about what to do with my out-of-school extracurricular activities because I haven’t done much outside the school.
(Since I go to a boarding school, it was challenging for me to make time for out-of-school extracurriculars.)
Moreover, as you all know, Korea doesn’t have many internships or work opportunities for high schoolers, especially for non-STEM students.
Can you all suggest some good extracurriculars for me? I would prefer something related to politics or leadership.
Are you a U.S. citizen or are you an international student for U.S. colleges?
Your ECs do NOT need to align with your possible college major or future career. Your ECs should be things that you enjoy, and show a commitment to doing. Having a leadership position is nice too, but not essential (we need workers and not just leaders everywhere).
So…what do you enjoy doing? Get involved in that.
I would strongly urge you to do ECs that YOU enjoy, not ECs you think might impress an adcom at some elite school.
I disagree that Korea doesn’t have many internship opportunities for HS kids. You just have to venture out. I volunteered with Korea Election Commission in 90s when I was in HS. Essentially, I walked in and asked if I can volunteer to learn the process. It’s something I still treasure - witnessed something remarkable - a rebirth of democratic government (certainly not perfect, but that’s a different discussion.) You being in a boarding school will be harder, but ask around. I also volunteered at the Denmark Embassy. Learned so much about Greenland. And it’s an election year in Korea! Good luck!
Do you have class or student council officers at your boarding school? Get involved in one of their campaigns for election if you do.
I am NOT a politician, but I was the campaign manager for several folks running for office when I was in HS. It was fun, and I had to learn about the process and execute it.
