So I want to major in something STEM related, and I realized this a little late (junior year), but my extracurriculars have all related to other areas like law or humanities. Would it look bad to start joining a ton of STEM related clubs and extracurriculars now? I guess I’m asking if colleges will think I’m just padding my resume?
Go ahead and get involved in what you are interested in! Colleges won’t think you are padding your resume especially if the activity is related to your intended major. Last year my 86 year old dad started a club based on something he is interested in that meets at his local library. It’s easy to get caught up in the “how will it look for college” when in reality everyone should be exploring and doing what they are curious about.
There is no need to join “a ton” of clubs and activities. Yes, that would look like padding. What won’t look like padding, and would look more sincere, is if you choose one or two STEM activities related to the major you intend to pursue, and spend a considerable amount of time immersing yourself in those very select activities.
Have you taken any career aptitude tests and career personality/interest tests? I’m curious why the sudden change of interest, and if it will be sustained long-term. Do your long-term plans include tying together your STEM and humanities interests? For example, you may plan on becoming a patent lawyer, for which you would need a science related bachelor’s degree and then a law degree. Many other areas of law can benefit from a STEM background as well, including environmental law, medical and pharmaceutical law, etc. Or perhaps you may enjoy studying the history of science, or working in international affairs dealing with science issues (Georgetown University has a major relevant for that direction). Another path might be to become a science journalist, or make science documentaries or do scientific illustrations and visualizations. I’m just trying to get you thinking more about your direction and how it fits your strengths and interests. If you have had a long-term interest and skills in humanities and law, there are ways to tie those interests together with STEM in your academic plans and career.
nick you are a senior not a junior
I joined robotics as a junior and that was the only STEM activity I had. Colleges still saw that, as well as my commitment to community service and clubs like MUN.