4 answers
Savannah
Student
Big Lake, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
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What are some things I can be doing outside of school to add to my college profile?
I play soccer in the fall and I would like to manage another sports team and join theater later in the year. My school is pretty small so there aren't many opportunities for clubs. Do you have any suggestions for good community service or volunteering ideas that I can do outside of school?
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4 answers
Patrick Bell
HR Generalist
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hi Savannah!
Great question! Here are some recommended tips:
First, a primary focus of college applications is academics/grades. I would recommend that any extra-curriculars do not detract from the quality of work that your produce in the classroom. If you feel that you are managing sufficiently, there are multiples way to get involved and take more on.
You mentioned that you would be interested in an additional sport, - it sounds like fall and spring are taken up with other activities, so i would recommend exploring the winter sport options at your school, or neighboring schools if it's a sport that yours doesn't offer.
Since your school is small and doesn't have many opportunities for clubs, is there something that you are passionate in and would want to explore creating a club? This showcases leadership on applications, and also creates a sense of community for those at your high school since you're bonding over a shared interest. If this isn't an option, you could ask your guidance counselor if they're aware of neighboring schools with clubs you could partake in.
For community service, any experience is good experience. I would look on Facebook community pages to see if there are opportunities in your area that are in need of volunteers (soup kitchens, churches, homeless shelters, other community service initiatives specific to your community). Volunteering and community service can take on a lot of different forms, so I would encourage you to find what you're passionate about look for opportunities to get involved based on that.
Best of luck to you!
Great question! Here are some recommended tips:
First, a primary focus of college applications is academics/grades. I would recommend that any extra-curriculars do not detract from the quality of work that your produce in the classroom. If you feel that you are managing sufficiently, there are multiples way to get involved and take more on.
You mentioned that you would be interested in an additional sport, - it sounds like fall and spring are taken up with other activities, so i would recommend exploring the winter sport options at your school, or neighboring schools if it's a sport that yours doesn't offer.
Since your school is small and doesn't have many opportunities for clubs, is there something that you are passionate in and would want to explore creating a club? This showcases leadership on applications, and also creates a sense of community for those at your high school since you're bonding over a shared interest. If this isn't an option, you could ask your guidance counselor if they're aware of neighboring schools with clubs you could partake in.
For community service, any experience is good experience. I would look on Facebook community pages to see if there are opportunities in your area that are in need of volunteers (soup kitchens, churches, homeless shelters, other community service initiatives specific to your community). Volunteering and community service can take on a lot of different forms, so I would encourage you to find what you're passionate about look for opportunities to get involved based on that.
Best of luck to you!
Jami Ibrahim
Career Consultant, Urban Planning, GIS, Resume Writing
22
Answers
Kaduna, Nigeria
Updated
Jami’s Answer
Hi Savannah,
Adding to your college profile through extracurricular activities, sports participation, and community service is a great way to showcase your interests and commitment.
Since you already play soccer and plan to manage another sports team and participate in theater, you are on the right track. Here are some additional ideas for community service and volunteering, as well as other activities you might consider:
Community Service and Volunteering Ideas:
1. Volunteer your time sorting food, packing meals, or serving those in need.
2. Help out at a local animal shelter by walking dogs, cleaning cages, or fostering animals.
3. Offer to tutor younger students in subjects you excel in, or become a mentor in local programs.
4. Organize or participate in community clean-up days at parks, beaches, or other public spaces.
5. Help at your community library with organizing events, shelving books, or assisting with reading programs.
6. Engage in activities with senior citizens at local retirement homes or community centers, whether that means playing games, reading, or simply keeping them company.
7. Check if local hospitals have volunteer programs where you can assist staff or provide companionship to patients.
8. Get involved in a community garden to help plant, maintain, and harvest crops, while learning about sustainability.
9. Volunteer with local nonprofits that resonate with your interests (e.g., youth programs, health initiatives, etc.).
10. Assist in running camps or workshops for children in areas such as sports, arts, or science.
Other Extracurricular Activities:
1. If your school has limited clubs, consider starting your own based on your interests (e.g., book club, film club, gaming group).
2. Get involved with younger athletes by coaching a youth soccer sports team or serving as a referee for local games.
3. If you have interest in music or art, consider taking classes outside of school, or participating in community performances or exhibitions.
4. Gain work experience relevant to your intended field of study, whether through internships or part-time jobs.
5. Enroll in online courses in subjects you’re passionate about or that align with your future goals.
6. Participate in cultural exchange or study abroad programs if available, to broaden your perspectives.
7. Engage in your own personal project like starting a blog, YouTube channel, or a community art project that reflects your passions and skills.
8. If opportunities arise, consider getting involved in student government to advocate for changes in your school.
By participating in these activities, you’ll not only enhance your college profile but also develop valuable skills, make new connections, and discover your passions.
Remember to reflect on your experiences in your college applications, highlighting what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown.
Good luck!
Adding to your college profile through extracurricular activities, sports participation, and community service is a great way to showcase your interests and commitment.
Since you already play soccer and plan to manage another sports team and participate in theater, you are on the right track. Here are some additional ideas for community service and volunteering, as well as other activities you might consider:
Community Service and Volunteering Ideas:
1. Volunteer your time sorting food, packing meals, or serving those in need.
2. Help out at a local animal shelter by walking dogs, cleaning cages, or fostering animals.
3. Offer to tutor younger students in subjects you excel in, or become a mentor in local programs.
4. Organize or participate in community clean-up days at parks, beaches, or other public spaces.
5. Help at your community library with organizing events, shelving books, or assisting with reading programs.
6. Engage in activities with senior citizens at local retirement homes or community centers, whether that means playing games, reading, or simply keeping them company.
7. Check if local hospitals have volunteer programs where you can assist staff or provide companionship to patients.
8. Get involved in a community garden to help plant, maintain, and harvest crops, while learning about sustainability.
9. Volunteer with local nonprofits that resonate with your interests (e.g., youth programs, health initiatives, etc.).
10. Assist in running camps or workshops for children in areas such as sports, arts, or science.
Other Extracurricular Activities:
1. If your school has limited clubs, consider starting your own based on your interests (e.g., book club, film club, gaming group).
2. Get involved with younger athletes by coaching a youth soccer sports team or serving as a referee for local games.
3. If you have interest in music or art, consider taking classes outside of school, or participating in community performances or exhibitions.
4. Gain work experience relevant to your intended field of study, whether through internships or part-time jobs.
5. Enroll in online courses in subjects you’re passionate about or that align with your future goals.
6. Participate in cultural exchange or study abroad programs if available, to broaden your perspectives.
7. Engage in your own personal project like starting a blog, YouTube channel, or a community art project that reflects your passions and skills.
8. If opportunities arise, consider getting involved in student government to advocate for changes in your school.
By participating in these activities, you’ll not only enhance your college profile but also develop valuable skills, make new connections, and discover your passions.
Remember to reflect on your experiences in your college applications, highlighting what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown.
Good luck!
Ava O’Hara
School psychologist
9
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Ava’s Answer
Look for a local animal shelter or community hub where you can offer your time as a volunteer. Another option is to consider volunteering for a crisis helpline. If there are chances to serve as a teaching assistant or a research aide at your school, seize them. These roles not only provide valuable experience, but also add significant value to your resume.
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
344
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Volunteering is always a great idea! Check out local food shelves, shelters and living assisted facilities. They can always use extra help and some may be flexible in hours. Other possibilities might include volunteering for a one-day event where you might hand out water or snacks or help with set up or take-down. Also be sure to let your friends, family, relatives and neighbors know that you are available and want to help. Even things like raking leaves or running errands for neighbors can be included on a resume.