Common App- How to distribute 12 EC slots

[NCBoy1]

<p>I am a little unsure on how I should use up the 12 slots on the Common App's Extra Curricular section. My goal is to get accepted into Duke ED, so if you have any advice for Duke only that is excellent, but I would also greatly appreciate advice for colleges in general.</p>

<p>First off, how closely do colleges (Duke in specific) look at your resume, along with the Common App? Do they carefully read the Common App and skim the resume, or do they carefully analyze both? I am having trouble describing my activities on the Common App as they barely provide you with any explanation room, I do a much better job on the resume.</p>

<p>Secondly, how should I allot the few spaces on the Common App? Would colleges rather see variety and achievement, or commitment and dedication to a few areas? For instance, I have dont a lot of work with guitars, and I have a lot of job experience. I could fill the entire Common App with those two (wouldnt actually do that), but I also have things like Varsity Lacrosse and good community service. Dedication or Variety?</p>

<p>Thanks so much for your help everyone!</p>

[NCBoy1]

<p>Bump Bump Bump</p>

[glassesarechic]

<p>From what I’ve read of college literature, you are expected to fill out the Common App EC section even if you attach a resume. This allows colleges to discern those activities most important to you and to serve as a summary of your resume. </p>

<p>In general, colleges would prefer to see dedication (and achievment in) a few select areas. In your case, however, I would put down lacross and CS as well, since you are committed to those activities as well. I interpret the concept of “only put your most important ECs” to mean that you shouldn’t put down clubs in which you were only a (relatively inactive) member or scattered, insigificant community service–basically, only put down those things you care about and are seriously involved in. In your case, that includes your less important activities.</p>