<p>Hello! I am filling out some applications for admission forms. So, they ask me to describe my extra-curricular activities. Well, I do programming (out-of-school). Then, on the same page, they ask me to tell about my hobbies. Well, I love programming (it is my hobby too)! Where should I write about programming? Confusing.
Thanks!</p>
<p>"Programming” would be a hobby. Programming relating to a job, club, or group, would be more acceptable as an extra curricular activity.</p>
<p>Thanks, Detpeace, I see. Hmmm, that is also weird, because they say “List up to 5 out-of-class activities in the order of importance to you.” in the instructions for extracurricular activities… Do they consider extra-curricular activities more important than hobbies? Or it just depends?</p>
<p>The term extracurricular activities is a catch-all phrase that encompasses everything you do outside of the classroom – that includes school-related activities (clubs, sports teams, debate team, theater productions, newspaper, student council and the like), as well as outside activities (recreational sports, hobbies, volunteering, jobs, etc). If they ask you to split things up into EC’s and hobbies, use your discretion. Programming could be listed in either category, or in both. Generally speaking, a hobby is something you do by yourself, as opposed to an EC, which would include other people.</p>
<p>Yes, if they include both extracurriculars and hobbies in the app – the “hobbies” would encompass anything that you do for yourself for the pure enjoyment of doing it (it can be by yourself but could also be playing video games with others, playing pick-up basketball, etc.) An extra curricular would be more “organized” – related to a specific organization. Maybe you do free programming for your church, or a local community group?</p>
<p>Thanks for your answers :). Oh, well, I help people on programming forum (should I tell 'em about that?)… I did some programming with a couple of my friends. Most of the time, though, I do it myself. I am just worried if they will count EC’s to be more important than my hobbies. I guess, what I am going to do is what Gibby said - put programming in both sections.</p>
<p>Absolutely. In the space you’re allowed, talk about your contributions to the programming forum and your volunteer work for your friends. Even though it’s technically a hobby, it’s not like you were sitting around watching youtube. Your interest in programming is easily as substantial as a formal EC activity. </p>
<p>For tips on wording activities, see this - </p>
<p>[Activities</a> - The App Style](<a href=“http://theappstyle.com/guide/activities/]Activities”>The App Style - A College Application Guide)</p>
<p>This is nice helpful article that you gave me, SplashOfScience, thanks. I put programming in both places. Wrote them about my accolades in that field + how much time I have been doing it + languages I study. Sumbitted. Really hope that will work.</p>