Does this count as a "personal activity" for short essay common app?

College Essays
1

<p>I want to write about how I am researching and teaching myself about nutrition and staying healthy. I also researched about optimum exercise, and run now I run often. I make food for my family/friends so I can introduce them to a healthy lifestyle as well. </p>

<p>I want to write about this because it's something I really enjoy doing in my free time. I was inspired to do this because ppl in my area are very unhealthy and because of my family that is now suffering the consequences of unhealthy living </p>

<p>I'm not sure this counts as an activity though... after all most people seem to be talking about volunteer work or playing instruments, etc.</p>

2

<p>It probably doesn’t count as an activity; for something to count as an activity, you have to be part of some organization or club. If you just do it in your free time for fun, then it’s more of a hobby. But, I think it’s okay if you write about it, though; just don’t put it as an activity.</p>

3

<p>What do you mean, I can write about it but don’t but it as an activity? The essay question is
In the space provided below, please elaborate on one of your activities (extracurricular, personal activities, or work experience)(150 words or fewer).</p>

4

<p>Oh, sorry. I meant you can write about it in your formal application essay, but probably not in the short answer question that specifically asks about your ECs.</p>

5

<p>If that activity isn’t something on your list of ECs on the CommonApp, then you shouldn’t write about it in the EC essay.</p>

6

<p>If it takes up a significant portion of your time like that, I don’t see why it’s not an EC.</p>

7

<p>Yes, it counts as a personal activity, and it sounds like a good one to focus on your essay. The essay is just another chance for the college to learn more about you. I bet the admissions officers would enjoy reading about something different – your endeavors around nutrition – than to read yet another essay about playing instruments or being in NHS.</p>

<p>Anyway, most colleges make admissions decisions overwhelmingly based on stats.</p>