Importance of 'level of recognition' in extracurriculars?

Hey guys! I'm a junior and I've been part of some clubs and competitions throughout high school. I'm curious about how much the 'level of recognition' matters in the admissions process. Are local and statewide accomplishments just as impressive as national ones?

Hello! The level of recognition in your extracurriculars does play a role in the college admissions process, but it's not the only factor. Admission officers consider the "4 Tiers of Extracurriculars" when assessing applications:

1. Tier 1: National or international level recognition, such as winning a Congressional Art award or being a top runner in the country.

2. Tier 2: High levels of achievement and leadership, but a step down from Tier 1. Examples might include being a student body president or playing in a state orchestra.

3. Tier 3: Interest-based activities with some leadership roles. This may include being a club officer or a sports team captain.

4. Tier 4: General membership in clubs or volunteering, without significant distinction.

For more on the 4 Tiers of Extracurricular Activities, check out this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/breaking-down-the-4-tiers-of-extracurricular-activities/

While national and international achievements (Tier 1) tend to be the most impressive, local and statewide accomplishments (Tier 2 or 3) are still great. Keep in mind that colleges are looking for well-rounded individuals with strong interests and commitment.

What's important isn't just the level of achievement, but the depth of your involvement and how it relates to your passions and future goals. So it's okay if you don't have a long list of national achievements, as long as you're genuinely committed to your activities and can demonstrate your passion and dedication through your application. Remember, quality over quantity is key in the college admissions process.

Good luck, and keep pursuing your interests!