EC's

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

<p>In 9th grade I wasn't active in school activities for the most part. I started an Asia club which went on for the whole year, but couldn't continue sophomore year (my school's fault, otherwise I would have continued). I was also a member of BuildOn (volunteer club/program). I went to the meetings regularly (not all of them though), and I wasn't able to complete any hours since they were at inconvenient times/ no transportation.
I am in the last marking period of sophomore year and I really want to get my ECs up. I understand its not necessarily the amount of ECs but the time/effort put into them, which is why I am worried that I'm starting a bit late.
The only thing I've done this year was attend BuildOn, but way less then before. No volunteer hours yet either. (Although, I did volunteer clean up at my church throughout 9th and 10th grade [still doing so]; 15 hrs)</p>

<p>Any suggestions on making my ECs look better? I'm not really interested in the clubs at my school besides BuildOn. My plan is to start getting in volunteer hours before my sophomore year ends (it ends in about 9 weeks, I plan to volunteer in 2-3 things weekly , which would give me 50+ hrs by then end of this year).
I will also try to get into as many summer programs as possible this summer that have to do with business, writing, or volunteer work. (I want to major in Business/ International Business)</p>

<p>If I do that, plus get very involved in my junior year / summer of junior year / early senior year (in the same areas), will that look good for college apps (not necessarily ivy, but I want to get into a good 4-year school). </p>

<p>(Also, I will take language courses starting this summer or next year. I have been self studying 2 languages since 8th grade; will that count as an EC? Since this would help me jump straight to an Intermediate/Advanced-level course instead of Beginner)</p>

<p>(I know grades count, but I'm concentrating on ECs in this post since my grades are good and the classes I am taking next year will help me get into the top 5-10 school rank)</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<ul>
<li>I would also continue with the volunteer work until graduation (so, more consistently)</li>
</ul>

3

<p>Try debate</p>

4

<p>Or any type of sport you enjoy</p>

5

<p>Thanks</p>

6

<p>I would try to gear your extra curricular activities towards what you’re planning to go into. For example, I want to go into scientific research, and I’m in SECME (Southeastern Consortium for Minors in Engineering), NCSSSMST (National Consortium for Specialized Secondary Schools in Math, Science, and Technology), and Experimental Science. You should also consider leadership roles or generally well-approved clubs like Student Council, NHS, and Beta Club. And if you aren’t happy with what’s at your school, it’s possible to start a club.</p>