College Tip of the Week #6: How you describe your activities

Today’s tip continues on from last week’s. In addition, as many universities have started making the SAT/ACT tests optional for college admissions, the other aspects of your application have become more of a focus for the admissions committee.

This week’s tip focuses on the idea that it is not how many things you do, but the quality of the things you do. What we mean by this, is that putting many organizations, activities, and leadership positions on your application or resume may make you think that colleges see you as active and involved in your community, but sometimes this can actually detract from the positive aspects of your application.

Your resume is not a checklist. It is much better to focus on the few activities that were most meaningful to you or most impactful in your community, especially activities that you have partaken in for a consistent period of time (such as multiple years of high school). This shows your dedication to the activity you are a part of and that it has improved your character and/or leadership skills. Also, remember that diversity is key, so include activities such as community service, organizations, jobs, sports, and awards to display who you are outside the classroom.