How can I feel more prepared for College Applications? I feel like I need to do moreAnswered
I am taking multiple AP/IB classes at my school (11 total is what I expect) and I do basketball, tennis, and marching band (section leader), and my GPA is a 4.133, but I still feel like I am behind as a rising Junior. I don't want to do more things, as I am busy and I know that colleges don't want to see just an overload of doing things, but I also think that my profile is just too light. I am a member of a few honors societies as well. Should I go for an active leadership role in one of those? I also plan to try out for drum major for my senior year, but I don't know how that will go. Is there any advice on how to become a more active member of what I do, or anyway to feel more assured about college? Thanks!
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3 answers
You should feel very proud as a rising Junior. You are off to a good start. I would join anything new. If anything, try to make a mark in the things you are already a part of. Get appointed to a leadership position, or initiate some type of activity within one of your clubs, or be put in charge to lead. Colleges are looking to see that you are more than just joining, but getting involved and being a part of the things you join. Hope this helps and good luck.
Hi there! For me, I felt the same way. Finding a way to add something that you are genuinely passionate about to your application is a great way to show that you did something with your time but also that it relates to you and your interests and isn't just an overload to boost college apps. Making a niche within one of your activities or taking up a leadership role in which you lead something new is super cool. For me, I started my own small business because I was passionate about art. It wasn't a lot but it tied into my personality and hobbies more than anything else on my resume. It was a good way to add an EC without it feeling forced and it also made me more human. Bottom line is find something that you like doing already and make it into and EC. That is the best way to add to your application without it feeling all over the place.
My biggest advice is to take the time to figure out what you are passionate about and then dive into it as deep as you can! I am a recently graduated senior; once I found the general field I enjoyed (plants/gardening as a hobby), I found ways to explore the field. Now, I am entering college with a lot of clarity as far as my major and career. That being said, it would have been okay if I changed my mind...grown adults are still trying to figure out what they want to do "when they grow up" and it's totally okay!
However, hobbies are more important than people give them credit for. Not only does doing things you enjoy improve your health and ability to succeed in school, but one of those hobbies very well may turn into a happy, profitable career for you! Keep an open mind and give it a shot.
You sound busy. I don't think you need to push yourself to add more to your profile. Stay faithful to what you are doing (commitment is respected by colleges), and again, if you have interest in something additional that could become a major, that would be the only reason to add more to your plate. If you don't have much leadership experience, however, I would recommend trying for a leadership role in a honor society, but if you find yourself doing it out of the need to add it to the list or to check a box and you hate it, it's may not be worth your time/energy.
If you have any questions, lmk! Hope this is helpful :)
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