Ideas for Extracurricular Activities?
Hi!
I'm a current junior, and I hope to major in Psychology with the ultimate goal of going into medicine. Some schools that I am looking to apply to would be Notre Dame, UMich, and Duke. Lately, I've become very worried about my extracurricular resume. I have a fairly strong ACT and GPA, so I am not worried about my academic profile. However, I feel like my extracurricular activities are incredibly weak when compared with other people that I know. I know a lot of people in my grade who have published research papers, or gotten internships, or work at doctor's offices. I have published literature reviews on the internet, and I am working on publishing another one this summer. I will also be working in a doctor's office (it is my dad's office, which I think definitely diminishes its prestige) this summer. I might also be able to publish an original research paper this summer, but that depends on my research group.
Does anyone have any further ideas of things I can get involved in to bolster my extracurricular resume? Thanks in advance and I hope you all have a great day!
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3 answers
Hi! First of all, super impressed. It seems like you've really applied yourself in high school. This summer, it seems like you have a lot on your plate. I would recommend trying not to start too many new extracurriculars right now because colleges will see right through that and assume that what you are doing may be a last-ditch effort. Instead, I think you should really just focus on putting all your attention into the things you are already working on. Look for more opportunities in the doctors office, consider going to a camp at one of those schools, and check out online internships. Good luck!
hi there! first of all, I think it's awesome that you're going to major in psychology - that's what I'm majoring in this fall!
I think music could be a good extracurricular option. if you play an instrument, you can join band or orchestra. but even if you don't play any instruments, you could sing in a choir. having a music extracurricular will show colleges that you have well-rounded experience not just in academics and research but also in the arts. I hope this helps, and good luck!!
Sports are often a great way to add extracurricular and demonstrate well-roundedness. If you don't really have an athletic background, there are several high school sports where people often start with little to no previous experience. At my school at least, badminton, tennis, and bowling are definitely the best starter sports for people who don't really have an athletic history. Also, keep an eye out for summer programs at certain colleges or non-profit groups. As for you working in your dad's doctor's office, I have a suggestion. What if your father was able to get you an interview with one of his doctor friends' offices? That way, you can still work in a doctor's office, but at a practice different than your dad's. It might add a little more credibility to the position. Best of luck!
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Thanks for your response! I'm just trying to really demonstrate to colleges that I am involved in things pertaining to my future career, and I'm also really worried that working in my dad's office doesn't look good enough on my application.