I am going to be a freshmen soon and taking quite a few honors classes (school doesnt offer AP) and I am pretty sure I want to go into STEM because I love coding and maybe something medicine related. I want to work towards trying for the top schools but since I want to be in the passionate areas should I be thinking about an EC like youth and government? There is a local chapter and sounds pretty exciting but I need to pick between that vs robotics compeitions vs doing some independent research with a mentor in biology. I will also be in the school swim team, orchestra and taking bunch of honors classes. I am trying to understand what advice would someone who has already gone through High school of few years or gone through admissions, give me when am torn between deciding ECs that will help me with my passion vs. exploring being an all up well rounded kid (Youth and Government EC)? Thanks
I went to an MIT admissions information session. The Adcom said they are looking for students with a spike, not students well-rounded. Do things because YOU want to do them, not because you think that they look “better.” If you’re doing things just because, you won’t be as devoted to them, and you probably won’t have much to say when writing an essay on them in your college apps.
Think about it. Would you rather have the All-American athlete that only plays football or the okay athlete that plays multiple sports? You’re so much more likely to stick out if you invest time in the things you want to do and excel.
ECs are a great way to convey your interests and passion. However, freshman year is a great time to explore! Just because something isn’t related to your major or future plans doesn’t mean it’s a bad EC. You don’t need to continue every activity from freshman year throughout high school; you can explore different options and try knew things out. Who knows? You might find your new favorite activity. Plus, your major and interests may change and develop over time.