<p>I have done stand-up comedy all throughout high school and part of middle school. One of my teachers asked me if I was putting that on my Common App, and I told her I didn't think you could. I've done unpaid talent shows, paid bar shows, and this past summer I (along with some friends) rented a theater, set up filming/recording equipment, and headlined my own show (we sold out the theater). Would that count as an EC? And if so, is it good enough to include on Common App? It never crossed my mind that this might count for college admissions.</p>
<p>That is definitely an EC, and a pretty unique one at that. Headlining a show and being paid to do stand-up comedy? That sounds like it took a fair amount of work on your part, definitely include it. </p>
<p>That is a super cool EC! Definitely put it on. I would list # of shows per year or total shows done, highlight any big ones the way you might an award, for example the show you organized and headlined - maybe # of tickets sold or something.</p>
<p>Shows talent, initative, leadership. communications skills</p>
<p>Absolutely this is a talent and an EC. Many colleges/universities have improv and sketch comedy groups. Your talent would be an asset to them, like being a talented singer or bassoonist would be to their music departments.</p>
<p>Yes, and EC doesn’t have to be a school based activity. You should thank your HS teacher for her excellent suggestion.</p>
<p>Thanks, everyone! My one reservation, however, would be that some of my material is online, and some of it isn’t exactly family friendly. Not sex stuff, just some language. Could that hurt me as an applicant if they check my routines; would they think I’m immature?</p>
<p>I wouldn’t worry too much, some of the most successful comedians curse in their routines, I would find it hard to believe that a college could really hold that against you. </p>
<p>Dont worry admissions officers normally dont have sticks up their asses. Even if your stuff was super offensive it’s a pretty common thing. Most of the funniest stand up acts are like that.</p>
<p>But the chances that the admissions officer would look up your routine on google are very slim. You have nothing to worry about</p>
<p>It’s going to show you’re able to take this talent/interest further and conquer any of the usual mortal fears or insecurities. Maybe, that you have that intrepid quality. It’s not unheard of but think of how you want to phrase it. And be cautious that, if you insert wit into your essay, it hits the right mark, no groans from adcoms no “what was he thinking?”</p>
<p>Context is everything. Cursing in a comedy routine can be considered normal, cursing in your essay, probably not considered normal, although there are times where it may be called for. The only thing you would need to be careful on is the nature of your comedy routine - there are certain subjects that the politically correct do not find funny, even if your audience does.</p>
<p>Q: How many radical feminists does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Hey, that’s not funny!</p>
<p>You should definitely put in on your Common App. I wouldn’t give them a link if you are worried, though. But this is an unusual EC, and colleges are aching for interesting, unusual students. Put it on for sure.</p>
<p>I think it’s a terrific EC. I wouldn’t worry about your routine having curse words in it. </p>
<p>If possible, could you edit footage of your performances to put it together as a highlight video without any segments that might be too racy? Athletes post highlight videos on youtube to send to coaches. You could include the link in the Common App. That way you have more control over what they are seeing. And I agree that it could be a major strength in your app - shows tremendous depth in ability to make an impact on a community.</p>
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<p>List it. No worries, no link, no editing. Your GC can also mention your skills. Maybe an LoR will mention your humor. Go for it. </p>
<p>Thank you very much, everyone. You all have been wonderfully informative!</p>
<p>If anyone else is still reading and putting up with my incessant questions, what category would this fall under? I’m guessing Other Club/Activity or Career Oriented? I don’t want to put Work since only a portion of it has been paid.</p>