My academics are strong, but my ECs lack. I have a few hundred (maybe 300+) hours of community service, split between 3 different things. But unfortunately, I’m not involved in sports and I haven’t joined any clubs at my school. I’m planning on joining csf this upcoming year (I’ll be a junior), but I know that my EC count is pretty weak. This really concerns me as far as admissions to good schools goes later down the line. Besides clubs and community service, what do you suggest for other types of ECs?
Jobs are helpful, especially those that show an interest in a potential career field. Could you find a part time job for this summer or next or work part time during the year? Research on a topic of field you are interested in would also look good. Since your academics are strong, would you consider joining a math club/ quiz bowl/ science Olympiad type of team? This would also look good on college apps. Peer tutoring is also a very nice activity that shows interest in helping out fellow classmates- if your school has a program for it. Remember, it is not too late to join a club junior year (if you are interested in any)- there may be some good ones to fit your interests. Good luck with your ECs & hope I helped.
it really depends where you plan to apply. UCs and most privates look at EC somewhat but, they won’t compensate for a sub-par GPA. At most of these schools, a 4.3 GPA with no ECs beats a 3.7 GPA with lots of ECs. For relatively elite schools, your ECs should show an interest or a passion and some leadership - team captain, club prez, etc. What you do really doesn’t matter that much.
Cal Poly SLO cares a little - but, it is something like 10%.of the MCA score so, it isn’t a big factor - here too, GPA, course rigor and test scores are dramatically more important. The rest of the CSUs don’t weigh them at all.
Hope that helps
Good luck