7 answers
brianna
Student
Miami, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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Can I still get into a prestigious college without extracurriculars?
I don't do any sports or clubs, but I still want to get into a prestigious college, is that possible?
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7 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1882
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Brianna !
To say that you don't have any extracurriculars may be an oversight, or may not be. If you have volunteer work, a part time job, hobbies that you regularly engage in, or activities that you do outside of school, those can be experiences that will mean a lot on your college application to a prestigious school. I would have to say that extracurriculars are very, very important for college admissions to big name colleges because it will reflect your ambition, interests and work ethic or talent. Let's look at some big name schools and how many students are chosen out of hundreds of applications.
Harvard accepts 3%, Yale accepts 5%, Princeton accepts 6%, New York University (NYU) accepts 12%, Wellesley accepts 14%, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) accepts 9%. That is acceptance into the college. Than you would have to be accepted into your major department. So a good GPA is a factor, but because there is such a narrow acceptance rate from many, many applications they receive, extracurriculars can make or break your enrollment chances.
If there is time, I would highly suggest getting a part time job, take up a hobby or craft that you can be active with or do some community volunteer work. Application auditors also go by how long the student was involved in an extracurricular. They like when someone stayed with something for a long time because it shows that the person is dedicated and gets along well in groups. So, a lot of focus is on the extracurriculars and when comparing hundreds of applications, all having excellent GPAs and test scores, the extracurricular part may make a difference.
Give yourself more time to think about this and make a decision in a way that will help you with your future plans. It's okay to choose alternatives and it's the education that will be the important thing regardless of what college you choose. Making it the best experience for yourself will really be what matters.
To say that you don't have any extracurriculars may be an oversight, or may not be. If you have volunteer work, a part time job, hobbies that you regularly engage in, or activities that you do outside of school, those can be experiences that will mean a lot on your college application to a prestigious school. I would have to say that extracurriculars are very, very important for college admissions to big name colleges because it will reflect your ambition, interests and work ethic or talent. Let's look at some big name schools and how many students are chosen out of hundreds of applications.
Harvard accepts 3%, Yale accepts 5%, Princeton accepts 6%, New York University (NYU) accepts 12%, Wellesley accepts 14%, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) accepts 9%. That is acceptance into the college. Than you would have to be accepted into your major department. So a good GPA is a factor, but because there is such a narrow acceptance rate from many, many applications they receive, extracurriculars can make or break your enrollment chances.
If there is time, I would highly suggest getting a part time job, take up a hobby or craft that you can be active with or do some community volunteer work. Application auditors also go by how long the student was involved in an extracurricular. They like when someone stayed with something for a long time because it shows that the person is dedicated and gets along well in groups. So, a lot of focus is on the extracurriculars and when comparing hundreds of applications, all having excellent GPAs and test scores, the extracurricular part may make a difference.
Give yourself more time to think about this and make a decision in a way that will help you with your future plans. It's okay to choose alternatives and it's the education that will be the important thing regardless of what college you choose. Making it the best experience for yourself will really be what matters.
Darren Wang
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Darren’s Answer
Hey Brianna! I'm not an admissions officer, but I would think that it's possible to get into prestigious colleges without extracurriculars. Many factors are considered in a decision such as the course load, GPA, test scores, essays, background, and recommendation letters. It is difficult to juggle 6-8 AP-, IB-, or higher-level courses every semester, so I would say it's not impossible to be admitted without partaking in extracurriculars.
That being said, however, being active in a few extracurriculars will never hurt you. These don't need to be sports or formal clubs like FBLA; instead, they can be volunteering or informal activities such as biking with friends on the weekend. It's about what you do with your time and how you grow from your experiences that matters. Hopefully this helps answer your question.
That being said, however, being active in a few extracurriculars will never hurt you. These don't need to be sports or formal clubs like FBLA; instead, they can be volunteering or informal activities such as biking with friends on the weekend. It's about what you do with your time and how you grow from your experiences that matters. Hopefully this helps answer your question.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
335
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
That's an excellent question, Brianna. I don't want to be discouraging, but I agree with Michelle. You don't have to play sports or be in a school-sponsored club, and you don't need a long list of activities, but you should do something in addition to academics. This could be a part-time job, community service, hobbies, regional theater, independent research, etc.
The reason for this may vary between schools, but generally, schools want well-rounded students who will contribute to campus or community life. Having outside interests could help you write your Common App main essay as well as answer supplemental questions that many schools ask. Plus pursuing outside interests can be fun and stress-relieving and help you build friendships with your peers.
That said, you should indicate if you cannot do anything else because of responsibilities at home, such as caretaking for elderly or younger family members. If that is true, it would explain limited time for other activities.
Good luck!
The reason for this may vary between schools, but generally, schools want well-rounded students who will contribute to campus or community life. Having outside interests could help you write your Common App main essay as well as answer supplemental questions that many schools ask. Plus pursuing outside interests can be fun and stress-relieving and help you build friendships with your peers.
That said, you should indicate if you cannot do anything else because of responsibilities at home, such as caretaking for elderly or younger family members. If that is true, it would explain limited time for other activities.
Good luck!
Meghna Dube
Analyst - Risk and Financial Advisory
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Meghna’s Answer
Hi Brianna
As Darren and Michelle pointed out, you can surely get a good college as long as you be you. There are many times we feel that we need certain validations to get recognized or get qualified for a college admission, however, you need to be able to highlight what you actually spend your day doing. Of course, the ask of every college is to highlight what value you could bring to their institute and how you think you are a great fit - and not all aspects are around extra curricular activities.
You could maybe start visiting the college website you wish to apply for and search for student profiles- search them on LinkedIn and see if they have their profile there. If yes, I am sure you will get an idea on what kind of students get admitted - you could reach out to them and ask about the various college clubs their are , specifically about those that would interest you.
If you have a mentor/college counselor in your school, definitely reach out to them and seek their advice as well. Hope this helps. All the best !
As Darren and Michelle pointed out, you can surely get a good college as long as you be you. There are many times we feel that we need certain validations to get recognized or get qualified for a college admission, however, you need to be able to highlight what you actually spend your day doing. Of course, the ask of every college is to highlight what value you could bring to their institute and how you think you are a great fit - and not all aspects are around extra curricular activities.
You could maybe start visiting the college website you wish to apply for and search for student profiles- search them on LinkedIn and see if they have their profile there. If yes, I am sure you will get an idea on what kind of students get admitted - you could reach out to them and ask about the various college clubs their are , specifically about those that would interest you.
If you have a mentor/college counselor in your school, definitely reach out to them and seek their advice as well. Hope this helps. All the best !
Mohini Gupta
Solutions Architect
4
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Mohini’s Answer
Brianna, don't worry if you don't have a long list of extracurriculars. Prestigious colleges do value them, but they're not the be-all and end-all! Here's a simplified guide to help you:
Firstly, nail the basics:
Academics: Make sure your GPA and standardized test scores are up to par for the colleges you're aiming for.
Engaging essays: Let your essays be a window into your personality, interests, and unique experiences. Make them captivating!
Letters of recommendation: Get glowing recommendations from teachers who know you well and can vouch for you.
Then, let your uniqueness shine:
Showcase your talents: Are you a whiz at music, art, writing, or some other field? Let your achievements and commitment shine through.
Work experience: Display your initiative and accountability through meaningful jobs or internships.
Community involvement: Whether it's volunteer work, independent projects, or personal initiatives, these can highlight your character and the difference you make.
And always remember:
Quality over quantity: It's more important to focus on activities that you truly love and where you've made a significant contribution.
Be real: Your unique journey and genuine excitement are more important than just ticking off boxes.
Know your colleges: Every college has its own priorities. Do some digging on their websites and chat with current students.
With a strategic approach to building your application and a focus on your strengths, you can still make a strong impression, even without traditional extracurriculars. You've got this, Brianna!
Firstly, nail the basics:
Academics: Make sure your GPA and standardized test scores are up to par for the colleges you're aiming for.
Engaging essays: Let your essays be a window into your personality, interests, and unique experiences. Make them captivating!
Letters of recommendation: Get glowing recommendations from teachers who know you well and can vouch for you.
Then, let your uniqueness shine:
Showcase your talents: Are you a whiz at music, art, writing, or some other field? Let your achievements and commitment shine through.
Work experience: Display your initiative and accountability through meaningful jobs or internships.
Community involvement: Whether it's volunteer work, independent projects, or personal initiatives, these can highlight your character and the difference you make.
And always remember:
Quality over quantity: It's more important to focus on activities that you truly love and where you've made a significant contribution.
Be real: Your unique journey and genuine excitement are more important than just ticking off boxes.
Know your colleges: Every college has its own priorities. Do some digging on their websites and chat with current students.
With a strategic approach to building your application and a focus on your strengths, you can still make a strong impression, even without traditional extracurriculars. You've got this, Brianna!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
763
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Brianna, I want to first thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding getting into a good school even without having extracurricular activities on your transcripts. I hope the information that I have below provides you with some insight and/or help.
It's important to understand that while extracurricular activities can certainly bolster a college application by showcasing a student's interests and passions beyond the classroom, they are not the only factor considered by admissions committees at prestigious colleges. However, they aren't the be-all and end-all for gaining admission into top-tier colleges. To illustrate this point, I'd like to share a personal anecdote about my oldest son. Despite not participating in sports or clubs during high school, he was admitted to several top-tier universities, including Purdue, CalTech, Georgia Tech, and Ohio State. Ultimately, he chose CalTech, where he pursued a dual degree in Environmental and Civil Engineering.
Admissions officers take a holistic approach to evaluating applicants, considering a range of factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and any extenuating circumstances. In my son's case, his personal essay and proactive approach in requesting an interview with the dean of engineering during college visits made a significant impact.
Even if you haven't participated in conventional extracurricular activities like sports or clubs, there are other ways to exhibit your potential for success and positive contribution to a college community. You might have engaged in independent projects, hobbies, part-time jobs, or family responsibilities that have honed your character, skills, and values.
Moreover, your personal statement or supplemental essays offer an opportunity to provide context for your lack of traditional extracurricular involvement and highlight other aspects of your identity and experiences that make you a compelling candidate. Admissions officers understand that every student's journey is unique, and they are actively seeking individuals who will thrive academically, contribute meaningfully, and enrich the diversity of their campus community.
So, while extracurricular activities can be advantageous, they aren't the only factor in gaining admission to elite colleges. You still have the chance to submit a robust application that mirrors your strengths, passions, and potential for success. I encourage you to embrace this opportunity with confidence.
It's important to understand that while extracurricular activities can certainly bolster a college application by showcasing a student's interests and passions beyond the classroom, they are not the only factor considered by admissions committees at prestigious colleges. However, they aren't the be-all and end-all for gaining admission into top-tier colleges. To illustrate this point, I'd like to share a personal anecdote about my oldest son. Despite not participating in sports or clubs during high school, he was admitted to several top-tier universities, including Purdue, CalTech, Georgia Tech, and Ohio State. Ultimately, he chose CalTech, where he pursued a dual degree in Environmental and Civil Engineering.
Admissions officers take a holistic approach to evaluating applicants, considering a range of factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and any extenuating circumstances. In my son's case, his personal essay and proactive approach in requesting an interview with the dean of engineering during college visits made a significant impact.
Even if you haven't participated in conventional extracurricular activities like sports or clubs, there are other ways to exhibit your potential for success and positive contribution to a college community. You might have engaged in independent projects, hobbies, part-time jobs, or family responsibilities that have honed your character, skills, and values.
Moreover, your personal statement or supplemental essays offer an opportunity to provide context for your lack of traditional extracurricular involvement and highlight other aspects of your identity and experiences that make you a compelling candidate. Admissions officers understand that every student's journey is unique, and they are actively seeking individuals who will thrive academically, contribute meaningfully, and enrich the diversity of their campus community.
So, while extracurricular activities can be advantageous, they aren't the only factor in gaining admission to elite colleges. You still have the chance to submit a robust application that mirrors your strengths, passions, and potential for success. I encourage you to embrace this opportunity with confidence.
Richard Tracy - IMBA
Sales
17
Answers
Batavia, Illinois
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Getting into a prestigious school is much more difficult if you're not an active member of the society you live in. After all prestigious schools want to teach students who are going to be productive and contribute to the world.
Perhaps you just have not found the right opportunity yet but I would recommend that you make sacrifices and go to clubs that you're not initially interested in at this point in time.
There are countless clubs and opportunities whether it is contributing to a student newspaper or doing volunteer work and the same is true for sports there are a wide range of athletic groups that you can join. Be brave and be bold and sign up so that some years from now you can look back and remember that this was the day that you began to participate.
Perhaps you just have not found the right opportunity yet but I would recommend that you make sacrifices and go to clubs that you're not initially interested in at this point in time.
There are countless clubs and opportunities whether it is contributing to a student newspaper or doing volunteer work and the same is true for sports there are a wide range of athletic groups that you can join. Be brave and be bold and sign up so that some years from now you can look back and remember that this was the day that you began to participate.