I was chosen as alternate viola for NYO2 and All-National Orchestra (I’m so mad at myself for this one since I def could’ve gotten in with the right preparation). Now is it worth mentioning within the activity section? I know its not as good as actually being in the thing but I know that NYO is hella prestigious and I was pretty damn close 
Thanks!
I wouldn’t. I hope you have other activities that you were chosen for or did participate in. Now if you do get to move up because the first place viola can’t play, then yes, do name it.
I would not since you didn’t actually participate in the group. Hopefully you have other strong viola related activities you can put on the application.