My son has about 450 hours. Most but not all of it was for one organization. I’m curious if this # of hours would be considered slightly or way above average for a high school senior? He is applying to highly selective LACs and religious schools in regular round for context. Thanks!
100 hours/year or (400 by senior year) was pretty typical at my D’s HS but community service was a requirement for graduation and most students stuck with their agency and went way above the minimum.
I think the more important piece is what was done during all those hours and how that is conveyed on the application.
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Quality > quantity
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Thank you. I think he’s done a good job in his app but didn’t add up the hours anywhere in most early around apps and I’m not certain how impressive the total is vs. other candidates. He worked 5 years for the same organization but also helped a variety of people in the community with the other hours. The GC to focus on the consistent one but I thought it was also great that he was exposed to a lot with his lighter activities.
I’ve seen kids (i.e. Scouts) with over 1000 hours (using their summers and time off). There is no real ranking or priority number of hours. It will add to their resumé, but it wont guarantee an admission.
The important point is that the volunteering is something the student wants to do and is not considered an obligation.
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My son’s school had a requirement of 100 volunteer hours in order to graduate. He had 400 hours and earned the gold Congressional Medal after being in the program for 4 years. Personally, I think he got into his reach school because of his volunteerism. I think it showed loyalty, character, and dedication which is lacking today in so many students. There are so many benefits from volunteering. You gain work experience, social skills, and learn to give back to your community. I do think it’s best to stick with 1-2 organizations that you are passionate about instead of jumping around just to earn hours.
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