<p>Sorry if stupid question- I'm a sophomore and haven't started the admissions process yet, however I was wondering whether you can only count high school volunteering hours when you're applying for colleges.</p>
<p>The reason I ask is because I have 300+ hours of service in middle school, and also won numerous city/congressional recognition's and awards there as well. Can I use these on my app, or am I only allowed to put high school contributions?</p>
<p>Actually, not a bad question. The CA focuses on your hs activities, but you can add a note in Addl Info. If you have truly done something important, fine. Especially good if you have kept committed to these activities over time (through hs,) put in the hours consistently, they are legit efforts that require more than you just showing up and following directions, you accrued some responsibilities, etc. Also good when you have been working side-by-side with adults, handling similar duties. </p>
<p>If it’s just that you did a little this and a little that, low level, easy stuff organized by others, and you just showed up, had fun,kicked in a few hours- and it just happens to add to 300 hours- then it’s not as impressive.</p>
<p>Thanks! Yeah I’ve continued with a lot of the activities, mostly tutoring elementary school kids, and I think I’ve come a long ways with it. I also was recognized as County’s “youth of the year,” “congressional recognition for community service,” “House of reps award,” and a ton of other stuff there too, that’s mostly the reason I was wondering. At the very least shows consistency?</p>
<p>Had the same question. Like you, I started volunteering in middle school, and have continued volunteering up until now, with well over 500 hours invested at the same place. I think it’s worth mentioning how you not only did the activity all through high school, but also that you STARTED even earlier and kept doing it. That’s true commitment right there.</p>
<p>Hi, I know several friends that did so and others who will do so. I think you should definitely put it on if it is the same activity that you continue doing throughout high school.</p>