<p>I'm a junior, and I've only started seriously thinking about college this year. Sophomore and freshman years, I wasn't a member of any clubs or really anything outside of school besides running cross country and track and taking guitar lessons (both only since last year). I still do both of those, but I know everyone says colleges like to see commitment in extracurriculars, especially leadership positions. I'm a captain for cross country, but I'm afraid that my lack of other extracurriculars will really hurt my chances. I'm not very worried about my academics, but would starting to do more extracurriculars now improve my chances, even though I didn't really have many for the past 2 years?</p>
<p>What kind of colleges are you talking about? Most state universities don’t care, you would be fine with just a couple of things. If you are angling for top tier or second tier schools, it matters more. It is early in the year, why don’t you add one more activity this year? Then make sure you have a productive summer next year (volunteer someplace, build on one of your activities from during the year, etc.). For most colleges that would be plenty.</p>
<p>I’m thinking about mostly pretty competitive schools. I can’t really say exactly where I want to go, so I know it’s hard to say, but I was thinking mostly top-tier schools.</p>
<p>Also, I forgot to mention, this past summer I volunteered at a hospital, and I plan on continuing that at least through this year.</p>
<p>So you have some activities. Here is the thing about the truly top tier schools. They want “pop” in the ECs of the students they accept. Adding school clubs or activities isn’t going to help with the very top schools. They are looking for significant external awards, accomplishments at least at the state level, or really unusual and interesting ECs. For a level below that, you are probably okay. If you add things, pick things you are really interested in or that add depth to something you are already doing.</p>
<p>Ok, that sounds reasonable. I guess I’ll try to work on something like that this year. Thanks!</p>
<p>@Lheinz16 - My daughter was not involved in any ECs in 9th grade (while attending a school outside the USA), a single EC in 10th grade, then got involved in a couple of additional ECs in 11th grade, including debate, which she quickly became passionate about.</p>
<p>Her perception was that she would have little chance at highly selective schools due to lack of ECs when compared to her peers. In the end she was accepted to several excellent schools, including two of HYPSM and a top-tier LAC. It appeared her lack of ECs did not hurt her at these schools.</p>
<p>Ultimately, ECs are only one of many criteria being used by colleges to evaluate applicants. They are looking for leadership, passion, and most of all, potential. There are ways to demonstrate this without an EC bucket list. If you can do anything, look for chances to demonstrate leadership skills. It’s not too late to join new groups but you shouldn’t do it simply with the goal of impressing colleges, instead pursue activities that interest you.</p>