I was wondering if I am at a disadvantage in the application process. To elaborate, throughout my school career, i have not been able to immerse myself in any school sports, due to physical disabilities and defects that I was born with. I am just worried knowing that many students applying to competitive schools typically have an extensive list of sports activities, and accomplishments. Will this hinder my chances, or will there be accommodations for students in the same situation as me? Also, is there other aspects to the application process that the admissions committee believe are equally important for an applicant?
No it won’t hinder you. There are plenty of other activities to round out your application…for example, music, theater, art, volunteering, a job, school activities such as clubs, yearbook, paper, student council—just to name a few.
There are plenty of non-athletes in college.
Sports is not the only EC you can have, as the above poster mentioned. You will not be faulted for it in any way. I have never played sports (literally ever- I am not athletic) and don’t even have a disability that prevented my participation, I just didn’t like them, and I’m not worried about it hurting me in college admissions.
Thank you for your replies, they’ve definitely eased my worries. I guess I’ve only thought about this because many of my friends and those I surround myself with, are athletically inclined. So they emphasize their athletics whenever college discussions come up, and the fact that I can’t associate, or relate with them there has bothered me for a while.
It does suck to be around people you can’t relate to. I’m sorry to hear that’s been your experience.
That said, sports definitely aren’t everything. I’m sure there’s a lot you have to offer to colleges.
Not only will your disability not hinder you, it can be used as an advantage to your application. It makes for a fasinating essay to be able to describe your frustrations of not being able to participate in sports and taking part in a club or activity which you may have had some issues with due to your disability but ultimately overcame them to have a deep meaningful experience in the activity. Sports are meh unless they are high d-1 athletes.
My kid never played sports or did anything physical. She got into a bunch of colleges. Not everyone is going to be interested in sports, so just be honest and list what your interests are. It’s grades that ulitmately matter the most.