Effect of Cheerleading Achievements on College Admissions

I'm part of a competitive cheerleading team and have won some championships. How much weight does this accomplishment hold in college admissions? Does it make a significant difference, especially in schools known for cheerleading?

Absolutely, your achievement of winning championships on a competitive cheerleading team can significantly enhance your college application! Extracurriculars like cheerleading can contribute to your overall "spike," or area of expertise, that colleges often look for.

Specifically, your cheerleading achievement can be categorized under the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars model as a Tier 2 activity. This tier includes high levels of achievement and leadership, such as being a key contributory factor in winning a championship. This can showcase your commitment, athleticism, teamwork, and leadership skills, all of which are qualities colleges value.

Tailor your application to highlight these cheerleading achievements. You could discuss it in your essays, explain it in detail in the activities section, or even ask your coach for a recommendation letter.

At schools known for cheerleading, such as the University of Kentucky or University of Alabama, your achievements in this area could be seen as an even stronger asset. Your involvement in cheerleading could show you're likely to contribute to their team, promote school spirit, and uphold the athletic reputation of the college. As always, though, other aspects like your academics, essays, and other extracurriculars will largely influence your admission decisions too.

Remember, colleges are typically looking for students who are exceptional in their interests, rather than being interested in a wide range of things. So if cheerleading is your passion and your achievements are considerable, make sure to bring that to light in your applications. Good luck!