Since so many colleges are becoming test-optional, more weight will be put on extracurricular involvement including community service.  If you are involved in your high school, the assumption is you will be involved on their campus.  This is a way colleges determine whether or not the student will be a good “fit”.  This is also a way students can separate themselves from the “pack”, particularly if they are applying to competitive schools.

Colleges are not just interested in accepting students who are strong academically.  They are looking for students with good leadership potential and a willingness to give back.   A weakness in this area could be a barrier to acceptance.

I know too many high school juniors and seniors who have not participated in any community service or extracurricular activity during high school.  Senior year is too late to begin this process.  College acceptance is based on freshman, sophomore, and junior years.  Ideally, involvement should begin in freshman year.  I advise students to be strategic about selecting activities. If a student knows their major or career path, they should look for activities that relate to their career path. It is not necessary to be involved in numerous activities.  Involvement in one or two activities over a sustainable period of time is just as impactful as a host of activities.

TIPS

• Check your high school website for extracurricular activities available at your school.
• Visit DoSomething or Volunteer Match to find opportunities to serve in your community.
• Keep track of extracurricular involvement and volunteer hours.
• When completing the activities section of college applications, discuss the impact of the experience and what you learned.
• In preparation for scholarship applications, be prepared to answer the question:  “What was your most meaningful community service experience”?