8 answers
Khai
Student
Olympia, Washington
5
Questions
Asked
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How can I increase my extracurriculars in high school?
I am currently in my school's DECA club and will be aiming for a club position this year. However I feel like this is not enough to get me noticed by universities or colleges. I also played soccer last year for my school but I didn't place very well on the team either.
I don't know what else I could be doing to better increase the extracurriculars that I already have.
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8 answers
Sharon Vien
Data and Tech Associate
51
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hi Khai,
I have a couple of questions for you:
1) Are there any other clubs that you're interested in?
2) What are you hoping to gain out of joining these clubs? (e.g., leadership opportunities or community)
3) In addition to clubs and sports, have you participated in any volunteering opportunities or looked for any internships that align to your career goals?
Overall, I think it's important to join extracurriculars that align with your goals. If you're interested in pursuing a medical career, I'd look into any clubs or organizations that offer volunteering opportunities or can help you explore your interest in a healthcare. I wouldn't worry too much about the number of extracurriculars you're in. Rather, I'd consider the quality and what you're able to get out of it (i.e., develop leadership skills). Best of luck!
I have a couple of questions for you:
1) Are there any other clubs that you're interested in?
2) What are you hoping to gain out of joining these clubs? (e.g., leadership opportunities or community)
3) In addition to clubs and sports, have you participated in any volunteering opportunities or looked for any internships that align to your career goals?
Overall, I think it's important to join extracurriculars that align with your goals. If you're interested in pursuing a medical career, I'd look into any clubs or organizations that offer volunteering opportunities or can help you explore your interest in a healthcare. I wouldn't worry too much about the number of extracurriculars you're in. Rather, I'd consider the quality and what you're able to get out of it (i.e., develop leadership skills). Best of luck!
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1326
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Khai!
First off, props to you for thinking ahead—I am still sleeping. So, college applications love a well-rounded student, but don’t stress too much! You don’t need to be the president of every club and discover a new planet to stand out (though, if you can, definitely do that).
Bright and the others gave solid advice—leadership, passion projects, internships, volunteering, and competitions are all great ways to boost your extracurriculars. If you’re already in DECA, push for that leadership role! Colleges love seeing growth, and running events or mentoring new members can make a big impact.
And if soccer wasn’t your thing last year? No worries! Either level up your skills or switch it up. Maybe start a sports analytics blog, manage a school team’s social media, or even coach younger kids. Showing initiative and creativity in your activities is just as valuable as scoring goals.
Also, if your school doesn’t offer something you love—create it! Start a finance club, an esports team, a community service initiative, or even a “How to Survive High School” podcast. Unique projects stand out way more than just stacking up generic clubs.
At the end of the day, colleges care more about what you learn and contribute than just a long list of activities. So pick what excites you, go all in, and make sure you actually enjoy the ride. And hey, worst-case scenario? You build some amazing skills and still have something cool to talk about in your college essays. Win-win!
Hope this helps and let me know of you need anything else or i missed something-guess forgot my keys! 🤗
First off, props to you for thinking ahead—I am still sleeping. So, college applications love a well-rounded student, but don’t stress too much! You don’t need to be the president of every club and discover a new planet to stand out (though, if you can, definitely do that).
Bright and the others gave solid advice—leadership, passion projects, internships, volunteering, and competitions are all great ways to boost your extracurriculars. If you’re already in DECA, push for that leadership role! Colleges love seeing growth, and running events or mentoring new members can make a big impact.
And if soccer wasn’t your thing last year? No worries! Either level up your skills or switch it up. Maybe start a sports analytics blog, manage a school team’s social media, or even coach younger kids. Showing initiative and creativity in your activities is just as valuable as scoring goals.
Also, if your school doesn’t offer something you love—create it! Start a finance club, an esports team, a community service initiative, or even a “How to Survive High School” podcast. Unique projects stand out way more than just stacking up generic clubs.
At the end of the day, colleges care more about what you learn and contribute than just a long list of activities. So pick what excites you, go all in, and make sure you actually enjoy the ride. And hey, worst-case scenario? You build some amazing skills and still have something cool to talk about in your college essays. Win-win!
Hope this helps and let me know of you need anything else or i missed something-guess forgot my keys! 🤗
Yunus Adiyaman
8
Answers
Updated
Yunus’s Answer
To stand out to colleges, it's important to focus on both depth and breadth in your extracurriculars. Here’s a breakdown of what you could do:
Commit to Leadership Roles: It’s great that you’re aiming for a leadership position in DECA! Colleges value leadership because it shows initiative and responsibility. If possible, take on more impactful roles within DECA, like organizing events, competitions, or fundraising projects.
Excel in Your Passion: While you didn’t place high on the soccer team, your participation still shows commitment. If soccer is your passion, focus on improvement—join club teams, attend camps, or take on a mentorship role by coaching younger players. Growth and dedication matter more than being the best.
Start a Passion Project: Colleges love unique initiatives. Consider starting a project that ties into your interests. For example:
If you love business (DECA), organize a fundraiser or a financial literacy workshop for younger students.
If you love soccer, host a free clinic for kids in your community.
If you have another passion, start a blog, social media account, or a club around it.
Get Involved in Community Service: Look for volunteer opportunities that align with your interests. Helping at a food pantry, tutoring, or organizing donation drives (like for formalwear or sports equipment) can highlight your commitment to giving back.
Join or Start a New Club: If there’s a club that interests you, join it! If your school doesn’t have a club that aligns with your interests, take the initiative to start one. For instance, if you like gaming or programming, you could create a coding or esports club.
Participate in Competitions: Beyond DECA, you can explore other competitions like essay contests, science fairs, or coding challenges. Success in these can help you stand out academically and creatively.
Summer Programs & Internships: Enroll in summer programs, internships, or workshops related to your career goals. For example, business camps, sports leadership programs, or even research opportunities can be impressive.
Take on Smaller Leadership Roles: If formal leadership isn’t available, take the lead in smaller projects, like organizing events or managing team logistics. It still demonstrates leadership and responsibility.
Be Consistent: Colleges value long-term involvement. Rather than juggling too many activities, focus on a few and grow within them over time.
Reflect Your Passion in Your Application: Whatever activities you choose, focus on how they align with your interests and goals. Demonstrate how they’ve shaped your character or prepared you for your future aspirations.
The key is to explore opportunities, challenge yourself, and stick with what truly excites you. Authenticity always shines through in applications!
Commit to Leadership Roles: It’s great that you’re aiming for a leadership position in DECA! Colleges value leadership because it shows initiative and responsibility. If possible, take on more impactful roles within DECA, like organizing events, competitions, or fundraising projects.
Excel in Your Passion: While you didn’t place high on the soccer team, your participation still shows commitment. If soccer is your passion, focus on improvement—join club teams, attend camps, or take on a mentorship role by coaching younger players. Growth and dedication matter more than being the best.
Start a Passion Project: Colleges love unique initiatives. Consider starting a project that ties into your interests. For example:
If you love business (DECA), organize a fundraiser or a financial literacy workshop for younger students.
If you love soccer, host a free clinic for kids in your community.
If you have another passion, start a blog, social media account, or a club around it.
Get Involved in Community Service: Look for volunteer opportunities that align with your interests. Helping at a food pantry, tutoring, or organizing donation drives (like for formalwear or sports equipment) can highlight your commitment to giving back.
Join or Start a New Club: If there’s a club that interests you, join it! If your school doesn’t have a club that aligns with your interests, take the initiative to start one. For instance, if you like gaming or programming, you could create a coding or esports club.
Participate in Competitions: Beyond DECA, you can explore other competitions like essay contests, science fairs, or coding challenges. Success in these can help you stand out academically and creatively.
Summer Programs & Internships: Enroll in summer programs, internships, or workshops related to your career goals. For example, business camps, sports leadership programs, or even research opportunities can be impressive.
Take on Smaller Leadership Roles: If formal leadership isn’t available, take the lead in smaller projects, like organizing events or managing team logistics. It still demonstrates leadership and responsibility.
Be Consistent: Colleges value long-term involvement. Rather than juggling too many activities, focus on a few and grow within them over time.
Reflect Your Passion in Your Application: Whatever activities you choose, focus on how they align with your interests and goals. Demonstrate how they’ve shaped your character or prepared you for your future aspirations.
The key is to explore opportunities, challenge yourself, and stick with what truly excites you. Authenticity always shines through in applications!
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Hey there. I think a search on Google gave these results
Enhancing your extracurricular activities can significantly strengthen your college applications. Here are some strategies to consider:
Pursue Leadership Roles: Aim for positions like president or treasurer in clubs such as DECA. Leadership demonstrates initiative and responsibility.
Engage in Passion Projects: Start a personal project related to your interests, such as creating a blog, launching a small business, or organizing community events. This showcases creativity and dedication.
Seek internships or part-time jobs. Gaining work experience in your area of interest can provide valuable skills and insights, making you a more attractive candidate to colleges.
Volunteer: Consistent community service reflects a commitment to helping others and can be a compelling addition to your application.
Develop a Unique Skill or Hobby: Dedicate time to mastering a particular skill or hobby, such as learning a musical instrument, coding, or painting. Depth in a specific area can set you apart.
Participate in Competitions: Engage in academic or extracurricular competitions relevant to your interests, such as science fairs, writing contests, or sports tournaments. Achievements in these areas can highlight your dedication and talent.
Start a Club or Initiative: If a club or activity you're passionate about doesn't exist at your school, consider starting one. This demonstrates leadership and initiative.
Enhancing your extracurricular activities can significantly strengthen your college applications. Here are some strategies to consider:
Pursue Leadership Roles: Aim for positions like president or treasurer in clubs such as DECA. Leadership demonstrates initiative and responsibility.
Engage in Passion Projects: Start a personal project related to your interests, such as creating a blog, launching a small business, or organizing community events. This showcases creativity and dedication.
Seek internships or part-time jobs. Gaining work experience in your area of interest can provide valuable skills and insights, making you a more attractive candidate to colleges.
Volunteer: Consistent community service reflects a commitment to helping others and can be a compelling addition to your application.
Develop a Unique Skill or Hobby: Dedicate time to mastering a particular skill or hobby, such as learning a musical instrument, coding, or painting. Depth in a specific area can set you apart.
Participate in Competitions: Engage in academic or extracurricular competitions relevant to your interests, such as science fairs, writing contests, or sports tournaments. Achievements in these areas can highlight your dedication and talent.
Start a Club or Initiative: If a club or activity you're passionate about doesn't exist at your school, consider starting one. This demonstrates leadership and initiative.
Fazal Elahi
online assignment writer and content writer
70
Answers
Chitrāl, N.W.F.P
Updated
Fazal’s Answer
Hello
Since you're planning to pursue a Science of Business Administration degree, it's a great idea to build your extracurriculars to strengthen your college applications. Here’s how you can increase and enhance your extracurricular activities in high school:
1. Join School Clubs and Organizations
Business & Leadership: Join DECA, FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), or Junior Achievement if your school offers them.
Debate Team: Great for developing communication and critical thinking skills.
Student Government: Gain leadership experience by running for a position.
Math or Economics Club: Strengthens analytical skills relevant to business.
2. Start Your Own Club or Initiative
If your school lacks a business club, consider starting one.
Organize finance workshops for students on budgeting, investing, or entrepreneurship.
Start a fundraising or charity organization to practice management skills.
3. Participate in Competitions
Business Plan Competitions (such as the Diamond Challenge or NFTE).
Stock Market Simulations (like the SIFMA Stock Market Game).
Essay or Speech Competitions related to business, leadership, or economics.
4. Gain Hands-on Experience
Internships: Look for internships with local businesses, banks, or marketing firms.
Part-time Jobs: Working at a retail store, bank, or office can provide real-world business experience.
Freelancing: Offer content writing, graphic design, or video editing services online (which aligns with your current skills).
5. Community Service & Volunteering
Volunteer for nonprofits and help with social media, event planning, or fundraising.
Teach financial literacy to younger students.
Organize charity drives or business workshops in your community.
6. Online Courses & Certifications
Take free business, finance, or marketing courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Harvard Online.
Get certified in Microsoft Excel, Google Analytics, or Digital Marketing.
7. Personal Projects
Start a small business (like an Etsy shop, reselling items, or dropshipping).
Create a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast about business trends, finance tips, or entrepreneurship.
Write a research paper on a business topic and try to publish it in a student journal.
Since you're planning to pursue a Science of Business Administration degree, it's a great idea to build your extracurriculars to strengthen your college applications. Here’s how you can increase and enhance your extracurricular activities in high school:
1. Join School Clubs and Organizations
Business & Leadership: Join DECA, FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), or Junior Achievement if your school offers them.
Debate Team: Great for developing communication and critical thinking skills.
Student Government: Gain leadership experience by running for a position.
Math or Economics Club: Strengthens analytical skills relevant to business.
2. Start Your Own Club or Initiative
If your school lacks a business club, consider starting one.
Organize finance workshops for students on budgeting, investing, or entrepreneurship.
Start a fundraising or charity organization to practice management skills.
3. Participate in Competitions
Business Plan Competitions (such as the Diamond Challenge or NFTE).
Stock Market Simulations (like the SIFMA Stock Market Game).
Essay or Speech Competitions related to business, leadership, or economics.
4. Gain Hands-on Experience
Internships: Look for internships with local businesses, banks, or marketing firms.
Part-time Jobs: Working at a retail store, bank, or office can provide real-world business experience.
Freelancing: Offer content writing, graphic design, or video editing services online (which aligns with your current skills).
5. Community Service & Volunteering
Volunteer for nonprofits and help with social media, event planning, or fundraising.
Teach financial literacy to younger students.
Organize charity drives or business workshops in your community.
6. Online Courses & Certifications
Take free business, finance, or marketing courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Harvard Online.
Get certified in Microsoft Excel, Google Analytics, or Digital Marketing.
7. Personal Projects
Start a small business (like an Etsy shop, reselling items, or dropshipping).
Create a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast about business trends, finance tips, or entrepreneurship.
Write a research paper on a business topic and try to publish it in a student journal.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
895
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Khai!
You're already off to a great start with DECA and soccer, but I get why you want to do more to stand out for colleges. Here are a few ways to build up your extracurriculars while making the most of what you're already involved in:
1. Deepen Your DECA Involvement
Since you're aiming for a club position, go all in on leadership. Colleges love to see growth in leadership roles.
Compete in DECA events at the regional, state, or even national level. Even if you don’t win, participating shows dedication.
Help organize events, fundraisers, or mentorship programs within DECA to make an impact.
2. Expand Your Leadership in Soccer (Even Off the Field)
If you don’t feel like you're excelling as a player, look for team manager or leadership roles. Helping with organization, fundraising, or mentorship for younger players can make your involvement stronger.
Consider playing club soccer outside of school or coaching younger players if that interests you.
3. Explore a New Club or Start Your Own
Find clubs that complement your interests. Since you're in DECA, a finance or entrepreneurship club might be a great fit.
If there’s no club you’re interested in, start one! For example, you could create a business mentorship club to help younger students with DECA concepts.
4. Get Involved in Community Service
Volunteer at local organizations, whether it's business-related (helping small businesses, tutoring in economics) or something different like a food bank or animal shelter.
Some schools offer National Honor Society (NHS) or service-based clubs—joining one adds depth to your extracurriculars.
5. Look into Summer Programs & Internships
Some colleges and businesses offer summer leadership or business programs for high school students. DECA also has summer leadership programs you might check out.
Internships (even unpaid ones) at local businesses, startups, or marketing firms can give you real-world experience that colleges love.
Rather than trying to join tons of clubs, focus on taking on leadership roles and making an impact in the ones you're most passionate about. Colleges prefer students who show dedication and growth in a few key areas, rather than just stacking up clubs for the sake of it.
You’re already on the right path—just take it up a notch and show initiative. You got this!
Best wishes!
You're already off to a great start with DECA and soccer, but I get why you want to do more to stand out for colleges. Here are a few ways to build up your extracurriculars while making the most of what you're already involved in:
1. Deepen Your DECA Involvement
Since you're aiming for a club position, go all in on leadership. Colleges love to see growth in leadership roles.
Compete in DECA events at the regional, state, or even national level. Even if you don’t win, participating shows dedication.
Help organize events, fundraisers, or mentorship programs within DECA to make an impact.
2. Expand Your Leadership in Soccer (Even Off the Field)
If you don’t feel like you're excelling as a player, look for team manager or leadership roles. Helping with organization, fundraising, or mentorship for younger players can make your involvement stronger.
Consider playing club soccer outside of school or coaching younger players if that interests you.
3. Explore a New Club or Start Your Own
Find clubs that complement your interests. Since you're in DECA, a finance or entrepreneurship club might be a great fit.
If there’s no club you’re interested in, start one! For example, you could create a business mentorship club to help younger students with DECA concepts.
4. Get Involved in Community Service
Volunteer at local organizations, whether it's business-related (helping small businesses, tutoring in economics) or something different like a food bank or animal shelter.
Some schools offer National Honor Society (NHS) or service-based clubs—joining one adds depth to your extracurriculars.
5. Look into Summer Programs & Internships
Some colleges and businesses offer summer leadership or business programs for high school students. DECA also has summer leadership programs you might check out.
Internships (even unpaid ones) at local businesses, startups, or marketing firms can give you real-world experience that colleges love.
Rather than trying to join tons of clubs, focus on taking on leadership roles and making an impact in the ones you're most passionate about. Colleges prefer students who show dedication and growth in a few key areas, rather than just stacking up clubs for the sake of it.
You’re already on the right path—just take it up a notch and show initiative. You got this!
Best wishes!
Kangana Patel
Student
24
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Kangana’s Answer
You're already on the right track with DECA and soccer! If you want to strengthen your extracurricular profile, consider these strategies:
1. Leadership & Growth in DECA
Aim for a leadership position (president, VP, secretary, etc.).
Compete in more DECA events, especially at the state/national level.
Mentor new members to show initiative.
2. Diversify Your Activities
Join or start a club: If your school doesn’t have a club you’re interested in, start one (entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, or anything unique).
Volunteering: Hospitals, food banks, tutoring, or a cause you're passionate about.
Academic competitions: Business, math, science, or writing competitions help boost your profile.
3. Personal Projects
Start a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast about business, marketing, or another interest.
Launch a small business or initiative related to DECA concepts.
4. Internships & Job Experience
Look for part-time jobs, internships, or shadowing opportunities (local businesses, marketing firms, finance, or sales roles).
5. Sports & Fitness
If soccer didn’t work out, try another sport (track, cross country, or a club sport).
Stay active through intramurals or community leagues.
6. Summer Programs
Many universities offer business, leadership, or pre-college summer programs.
7. Community & School Engagement
Join student government or committees that organize school events.
Take on a role in yearbook, newspaper, or theater if interested.
Colleges look for depth and leadership, so focus on excelling in a few activities rather than joining many. If you start an initiative, compete, or hold a leadership role, you’ll stand out!
Would you like recommendations for specific programs?
1. Leadership & Growth in DECA
Aim for a leadership position (president, VP, secretary, etc.).
Compete in more DECA events, especially at the state/national level.
Mentor new members to show initiative.
2. Diversify Your Activities
Join or start a club: If your school doesn’t have a club you’re interested in, start one (entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, or anything unique).
Volunteering: Hospitals, food banks, tutoring, or a cause you're passionate about.
Academic competitions: Business, math, science, or writing competitions help boost your profile.
3. Personal Projects
Start a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast about business, marketing, or another interest.
Launch a small business or initiative related to DECA concepts.
4. Internships & Job Experience
Look for part-time jobs, internships, or shadowing opportunities (local businesses, marketing firms, finance, or sales roles).
5. Sports & Fitness
If soccer didn’t work out, try another sport (track, cross country, or a club sport).
Stay active through intramurals or community leagues.
6. Summer Programs
Many universities offer business, leadership, or pre-college summer programs.
7. Community & School Engagement
Join student government or committees that organize school events.
Take on a role in yearbook, newspaper, or theater if interested.
Colleges look for depth and leadership, so focus on excelling in a few activities rather than joining many. If you start an initiative, compete, or hold a leadership role, you’ll stand out!
Would you like recommendations for specific programs?
Alaina Gomez
Sales Associate
5
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Alaina’s Answer
Hi Khai, you have some great opportunities ahead! Consider exploring options outside of school or even starting something new if you can. There are countless volunteer activities, clubs, and programs available to high school students eager to grow, both in their careers and personally. You can also begin a new chapter of an existing program at your school. For example, I launched a Key Club at my high school to get involved in community service. I even received support from the national program and my school. You can do it too!