Colleges want to accept students who will serve as campus leaders. Therefore, activities that showcase a student's leadership capabilities should always be included in an application. A few examples include an officer position in an after-school club, being captain of a sports team, drum major of the band, and elected positions on the school's student council or government. Colleges notice applicants who take initiative, so students who start new clubs or organizations should mention their groundbreaking roles.
Schools value applicants who show a willingness to help others. Some students demonstrate their dedication to civic service by describing their participation in a national volunteer organization's high school affiliate like Kiwanis' Key Club or Lions Clubs International's Leo Club. Others may note volunteering activities performed independently or through school clubs and church groups. If volunteer service started or furthered a career interest, students should point it out in the application. For example; an applicant who wants to become a veterinarian should mention how volunteering at the local animal shelter influenced his/her decision.
Students who work are more likely to have traits colleges prize: responsibility, dependability, and a certain level of independence. After-school or summer jobs and internships, paid or unpaid, should always be included in college applications. Any noted accomplishments or awards garnered should be highlighted. Admissions officers remember unique stories, so students who illustrate unusual jobs, tasks or achievements and how they benefited or learned from the experience stand out. If possible, students should explain how work experience helped chart a future career path or college choice.
Students applying to a specific major should include activities that show they are a good fit for their chosen school or field. For example; students applying to a film program should include movie making or film experience. Budding journalists should note their roles in the school newspaper or the job shadowing they did at the local paper every summer. A future engineering student who builds robots as a hobby illustrates the ingenuity and creativity programs look for.