Is a job or volunteering better for high school students?

I'm trying to decide between getting a job or volunteering during high school. How do colleges view these activities, and which might be more beneficial for my personal growth and college applications?

Both jobs and volunteering can be beneficial, and colleges tend to view both positively. It's really about what you gain and learn from the experience, and how you can articulate that in your applications.

Work experience can showcase a range of competencies including responsibility, time management, and teamwork. It can also showcase your maturity, as balancing schoolwork and a job can be challenging. Jobs can also expose you to potential career fields, allowing you to learn about a profession first-hand. Also, if the job aligns with your prospective major or field of interest, it can be a strong extracurricular activity. For instance, if you aspire to be a veterinarian, working at an animal shelter would be seen as more significant than a job unrelated to animal care.

Volunteering, on the other hand, is a fantastic way to display your commitment to community service, showcase your passions, or demonstrate leadership abilities. Additionally, for colleges that consider demonstrated interest, volunteering at an institution where you hope to attend can be beneficial. If your volunteering involves taking on leadership roles or key projects, that adds a further layer of depth to your college application.

Essentially, the choice between the two should hinge on your personal goals and what best supports them. Which one would you learn the most from? Which one are you most passionate about? Remember, it's not just about having an activity to list on your applications—it's also about personal growth, acquiring skills, and exploring interests. Regardless of whether you decide to get a job or volunteer, the key is to make the most of the opportunity, learning and growing as much as you can.