Hey everyone! I've been thinking about all the usual extracurriculars - sports, clubs, volunteer work, and so on. But I want to do something non-traditional, something that really stands out to college admissions. What are some unique or atypical extracurricular activities that you're involved with or have heard of that colleges seem to value?
Hello! I love your approach to thinking outside the traditional extracurricular box! Colleges certainly value unique activities that give them a well-rounded understanding of a student's interests and abilities. Here's a list of few less common but impactful activities:
1. Starting a Small Business - This could be anything from a tutoring service, a lawn care business, or an Etsy shop. It showcases leadership, initiative, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
2. Political Campaign Involvement – Volunteering or interning with local, state, or national political campaigns shows engagement in societal issues and can provide valuable, real-world experience.
3. Conducting Independent Research – This can be in any field that interests you. For instance, you could conduct environmental studies in your local area or research a historical event. Often these projects can be presented at local science or history fairs, or could potentially be published.
4. Community Organizing – Addressing an issue in your local community can show initiative and leadership skills. For instance, you could organize a clean-up drive, start a literacy program, or engage in other community services.
5. Podcasting or YouTube - Creating regular content on a subject matter that fascinates you demonstrates consistency, knowledge, creativity, and passion.
6. Establishing a Nonprofit – If there's a cause you deeply care about, starting a nonprofit organization can make a significant impact and exhibits initiative, dedication, and the ability to make things happen.
Remember that the key is to pick something you're genuinely interested in because this passion will shine through in your application. Also, maintaining a high level of commitment, showing progress or impact, and assuming leadership roles if possible will be beneficial. Good luck on your journey!
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