Mississippi Money Using Extra Curricular Activities to Find Your Dream College
One of the keys to reducing the cost of college is to be a student that the college wants to have. Colleges look for someonewho can contribute to their student body, and if they think you are the right person, they are more likely to make you a better financial offer. Extra-curricular activities are your chance to demonstrate that you are the student that your dream college wants.
You don’t have to be a star athlete or a published scientist to stand out to an admissions officer. The key is to use your extra curricular activities to show your passion, work ethic and abilities.
Focus. While your freshman year is a good time to explore options your school offers, by your junior year you should have clearly found, or started, extra curricular activities that fit you. Narrow your participation to a few activities, but chose ones to highlight an academic ability, community service and something that shows your personality.
Find your passion. If you are passionate about the activity you participate in, it will show. Use your activities to show growth and accomplishment. Leadership positions, competitive awards and personal goals reached all show a level of commitment that makes you stand out.
Leadership can take different shapes. While you may not be the quarterback, team captain or student body president, you can take ownership of a task or project that your club does. Projects like performances or outreach events offer ample opportunity for club members to show that they led others to success.
College entry is very competitive and to get a good offer, high school students need to stand out as someone that the college wants. Demonstrating your passion and ability to contribute to those around you through your extra-curricular interests adds an important element to your application.
By Ryder Taff
