How Extracurriculars Can Make or Break Your College Application
So, you’re thinking about college applications and wondering, “Do extracurricular activities really matter?” The answer: YES—but maybe not in the way you think.
Let’s break it down and make it simple.
How Much Do Extracurriculars Really Matter?
According to NACAC’s State of College Admission Report for Fall 2023, only 6.5% of colleges consider extracurriculars “considerably important.” But here’s the catch—those colleges are usually the most selective ones. These are schools where 80% of applicants are already academically qualified, so standing out through activities is crucial.
If you’re aiming for a highly selective school, extracurriculars are your golden ticket. But even if you’re not, they still help showcase who you are beyond your GPA and test scores.
What Kind of Activities Stand Out?
Colleges don’t have a strict ranking of “best” activities, but the ones that stand out tend to be:
Self-directed – Something you started or pursued on your own.
Driven by intellectual curiosity – Learning something because you love it.
Impact-focused – Activities that create real, measurable change.
Beyond school walls – Community-based or global activities.
Original and distinctive – Something not every student is doing.
Connected to responsibility – Like helping with family duties.
Instead of piling on activities just to look busy, aim for 3-4 long-term commitments that show initiative, impact, consistency, and commitment.
Quality Over Quantity
One of the biggest mistakes students make? Spreading themselves too thin. Colleges aren’t impressed by a mile-long resume; they want to see meaningful engagement.
DO: Stick to a few key activities that show growth and dedication.
DON’T: Join 15 clubs just to fill up your application.
Think of it like this: Would you rather read 10 mediocre books or 3 amazing ones that changed your life? Admissions officers feel the same way about your activities.
How to Find Activities You Actually Enjoy
Not sure where to start? Try asking yourself these questions:
👉 What do I want to learn?
👉 Where do I want to grow?
👉 What am I curious about?
👉 What experiences do I enjoy?
👉 What level of impact do I want to make?
If you’re stuck, observe how you already spend your time. Love YouTube? Try making your own videos. Enjoy doodling? Turn it into digital art. Like gaming? Organize an esports fundraiser. The key is to take what you enjoy and add a purpose to it.
Planning Unique & Competitive Extracurriculars
The U.S. college system is unique because it values what students bring to campus life. Schools don’t just admit students; they admit community members. That means they want students who contribute, engage, and grow.
Where Colleges Look for Your Personal Qualities
Recommendation letters
Personal statement
Supplemental essays
Activity list descriptions
(and sometimes) Interviews or video responses
How to Build a Standout Activity Profile
Pick 3-5 values you care about.
Learn what colleges value (intellectual curiosity, leadership, service, etc.).
Brainstorm at least 5 activities that align with both.
Pick 3 solid ideas to focus on.
Track your growth and see how it shapes your story.
Your activities should reflect who you are and what you care about.
Seven Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Choosing Activities Just to Impress Colleges
Colleges want to see how you contribute, not just how you build a fancy resume.
2. Thinking Titles = Leadership
You don’t need to be “President of X Club” to be a leader. Starting a project, solving a problem, or making a difference is leadership.
3. Prioritizing Prestige Over Passion
Big-name summer programs aren’t required. Free community-based or self-started activities can be just as impactful.
4. Sticking With Activities You Hate
Burnt out? It’s okay to quit something that no longer serves you.
5. Staying Only Within Your School
Look for opportunities outside school: local groups, online communities, internships, and beyond.
6. Paying Tons of Money for “Elite” Programs
Admissions officers can tell when something is “bought” rather than earned.
7. Copying Someone Else’s Path
Colleges admit students based on their unique contributions—not because they followed someone else’s blueprint.
At the end of the day, your extracurricular activities should tell a story about who you are, what you care about, and how you take action. Whether you’re organizing community events, diving into a niche hobby, or taking care of siblings, it all counts.
So, instead of asking, “What looks good on a college application?” ask yourself:
👉 What do I enjoy doing?
👉 How can I make a real impact with it?
👉 How does this shape who I want to be?
Find what excites you, commit to it, and let it shape your college application—and your future. And if you need extra support, reach out and we’ll mentor you through this process. We’re here to help!