<p>One thing that I think is helpful is to look at a Common Application and get an idea of what sort of questions they'll be asking. Do you want a hole where it says volunteer activities? Or work experience? Or community service? There isn't a right or wrong answer - there are perfectly good reasons why a kid might not have time to do everything. I do think a kid should be encouraged to find one or two ECs (not necessarily in school) that they really enjoy and persue in depth.</p>