Advice on Fitting ECs/Volunteering In

Applying to College
1

<p>Right now, I'm attending a community college 45 minutes away with 6 classes, awkwardly spread out, and I work 20 hours a week. I'd like to transfer to a solid liberal arts college for my junior year, but I'm not sure if I have much of a chance. I'm only in my chamber singers group, with no volunteering, since other clubs I'm interested in meet during classes I have, and volunteer opportunities I'm interested in mostly have agencies an hour away, which I can't justify when having to afford expenses. Next semester should be easier, but what would you recommend now? Also, will it look poorly upon me transferring that I only really have ECs for a year? In high school I was in our school's women's select vocal group/chorus officer, drama club public relations officer, art club, and newspaper, so can I show that when transferring to make my freshman year of college look better? Also, can working to support necessities seen in admission's eyes as slightly making up for less-than-stellar ECs?</p>

<p>Sorry if it makes it sound like I'm making excuses, I'm just nervous about looking "uninvolved" because it's harder for me to fit things in.</p>

2

<p>You work 20 hrs/week. That is an EC - a very important one that has probably taught you a lot more than all those high school students who are on the math team. Don’t worry about any clubs or volunteering or anything else. Just make sure your grades are good and the schools know that you are working hard to support yourself (and your family?) A letter of rec from your boss would also be helpful if you think he or she could provide positive insights into who you are.</p>