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Volunteer hours for Ivy League: any recommendations?

Hi guys! I'm hoping to apply to some Ivy League schools, and I was wondering if there's a recommended number of volunteer hours I should be aiming for to make my application stand out? Any thoughts or suggestions would be much appreciated!

11 months ago

There is no magic number of volunteer hours that will guarantee admission to Ivy League schools or make your application stand out. However, it is important to demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and show the impact that your service has made.

While having a certain number of hours is less important than the actual engagement and quality of your service, successful Ivy League applicants typically do have a devoted and extended track record of volunteering.

Rather than focusing solely on the number of hours, consider the following factors when participating in volunteer activities:

1. Consistency: Participate in volunteer activities that you genuinely enjoy and commit to them for an extended period. This will demonstrate your dedication and consistency to Ivy League admissions committees.

2. Impact: Look for volunteer opportunities where you can make a genuine positive impact on your community or on a cause that you feel strongly about. Be sure to highlight the outcomes of your efforts, such as funds raised, number of people served, or any measurable improvements you were able to make.

3. Leadership: Taking on leadership roles in your service projects, like organizing events or leading a group of volunteers, showcases your initiative and commitment to making a difference.

The key is to choose quality over quantity. Remember that Ivy League admissions committees want well-rounded individuals with depth in their extracurricular activities, not students with an exhaustive list of community service hours. By focusing on the quality, impact, and leadership in your volunteer activities, you will demonstrate your passion, commitment, and potential as a future leader—which is what Ivies are looking for in their applicants.

11 months ago

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