Extracurricular activities help students stand out

By: BRENDA DURAN - Staff Writer | Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:24 PM PDT ∞

Just where exactly do colleges go to find clues about an applicant's determination, leadership skills and tenacity?

They go straight to the applicant's list of extracurricular activities.

Although a strong transcript with stellar grades has always been highlighted as the key to improving the chances of admission, these days the after-school activities that applicants are involved in are what many colleges are putting a lot of focus on.

"Colleges are looking for students who have stepped out of their comfort zones and challenged themselves," said Nancy Caine, director of college counseling at St. Augustine High, a private school in San Diego. "They want to see students get involved with their church, student government, tutoring and volunteering."

Caine said although extracurricular activities are supplemental to the college application, they play a crucial role in helping colleges see an applicant's level of committment, special abilities and, many times, social conscience.

"The activities they choose can make them seem very interesting and set them apart," said Caine, who also works as a consultant to Solutions, a college readiness program in San Marcos.

Instead of having a long list of many different activities, students should focus on one activity based on their interests that can offer many leadership opportunities.

"I always tell my students to find something they enjoy and turn it into a service," said Caine.

When it comes time to fill out a college application, students can then use those extracurricular activities to write a focused and enticing college essay that highlights their individual qualities.

Whether it's spending the summer cleaning up beach trash, working with the Girl and Boy Scouts or being part of student government, students should keep in mind that every bit of service will not go unrecognized.

"Many times it determines who gets in and who doesn't," said Caine.

Contact staff writer Brenda Duran at (760) 761-4408 or bduran@nctimes.com. Comment at nctimes.com.

Keep these things in mind when choosing extracurricular activities as you plan for college:

-- Join clubs or student groups that appeal to your interests or goals

-- Volunteer with community organizations that reflect your interests

-- Explore different activities early so you can get a clear idea of your goals and interests by your junior year

-- Whenever possible, try to assume a leadership role in activities

-- Don't forget to include yhour employment history as part of your college applications

Other useful resources

-- www.volunteermatch.org or check with your favorite charity, community organization or public agency

-- www.nacacnet.org: Click on "Student Resources" and then "Steps to College."

-- www.collegeconfidential.com: College admissions counseling information on many topics

www.volunteersandiego.org

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