Top High School Clubs for Impressing Colleges

I'm a junior and want to join clubs that will stand out on my college applications. What are some of the best clubs to be part of in high school that colleges love to see? Any specific activities or leadership roles I should aim for?

While there's no definitive list of the "best" clubs for impressing colleges, it's important to consider the kinds of activities and leadership roles that align with your interests and goals. Keep in mind that colleges are invested in understanding the depth of a candidate's involvement, not the sheer quantity of their activities.

A few types of clubs that tend to impress colleges include:

1. Academic Clubs: These are clubs related to specific subject areas or academic interests. They could include Math Club, Science Olympiad, Debate or Speech Club, or History Club. Leadership roles in these clubs indicate a commitment to academic enrichment beyond the classroom.

2. Service Clubs: Examples could include Interact Club, Key Club, or any club that focuses on community service and volunteering. Leadership roles in these clubs show your commitment to serving others and giving back to your community.

3. Clubs related to your intended major or career path: If you're planning a career in business, getting involved with DECA or a school-based Entrepreneurship Club would be a strong choice. If you're interested in Medicine, you might consider joining HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America). These kinds of clubs show colleges that you have a long-standing interest in your intended field of study.

In general, you should aim to demonstrate commitment and impact. Colleges are often more impressed by students who show significant involvement in a few activities than by those who participate in many clubs but only on a superficial level. It's better to choose a club you're genuinely interested in, dedicate yourself to it, take on a leadership role if you can, and strive to make a real difference in the club's activities and the community it serves.

Remember, Tier 1 and Tier 2 extracurricular activities, which involve high levels of achievement and leadership, are what most impress colleges. That could mean something like leading your school's Model United Nations team to a state championship, or organizing a large-scale fundraising event for a service club. Don't join clubs just to join them—find ones you're passionate about and get deeply involved.