Listing athletic activities on a recommendation letter may highlight certain desirable characteristics. These include the ability to work with a team to achieve goals, perseverance and physical fitness. However, the administrator or teacher should not include athletic activities if you did not fully participate; for example, if you quit the team mid-season.
Participation in fine arts activities such as band, choir, orchestra or theater is also desirable. Fine arts activities also demonstrate your ability to work with a team, along with your creativity, work ethic and willingness to take direction. In addition, statistics from the Texas Music Educators Association show that high-achieving musicians tend to have higher SAT and ACT scores.
Any club or group that is related to an academic subject or community service activity would be a good one to list. Excellent examples include Robotics Club, National Honor Society, Student Council and Latin Club. Clubs related to hobbies can also show your involvement in the school culture. Chess Club is a good example.
Administrators and teachers should also include any special honors or achievements related to school activities. Mentioning these may help you stand out from other applicants. For example, instead of just saying you were in band, your administrator or teacher might mention that you were a section leader and made the region band twice.