<p>What are considered the best ECs?</p>
<p>Examples: Is starting a nonprofit for a local cause that raises, say, >$10,000 singlehandedly an outstanding 10/10 EC? How about some year long merit based study abroad program? Nationwide winner of a sports or music competition? I can’t think of any other examples. </p>
<p>What are the absolute best? How much in terms of GPA (or SAT or ACT) can they compensate for?</p>
<p>Captain of the football team.</p>
<p>Concert musician.</p>
<p>I would pick one thing, and concentrate on that.</p>
<p>We have a relative who worked training seeing eye dogs, for example.</p>
<p>There is no one size fits all EC that colleges would look at and say “wow, he/she is definitely getting accepted here.” </p>
<p>Keep in mind they are looking for commitment and excellence, so listing 15 EC’s you have done for 3 months each isnt the best way to go.</p>
<p>It’s better to have at least 2 which you have dedicated 3-4 years, and risen through the ranks to say, perhaps a captain or presidential position. </p>
<p>A good example of “excellence” if you are interested in, say, getting a MBA would be
-Speech and debate captain (shows colleges that you are a good speaker)
-Budget Director for the Student Union (…you are a good in finance)
-Business editor for the school newspaper (…you are good in, well, business relations)
-President of a club like the Young Entrepreneur Club (…you are a leader)
etc. </p>
<p>I guess my point is, stick with what you find interesting, and work your way up. That way, perhaps you will also find inspiration for your college essay, if you are required to write one.</p>