<p>My question is how do the adcoms distinguish between those who have a passion for the activity and those who don't if their essay doesn't address extra curriculars? I wasn't planning on my essay topic being about E.C.s, but is it necessary if I want to convey my sincere interest in them?</p>
<p>I completely agree, cavilier. As someone who loves her volunteer work, I am kind of offended by threads like this. I (and many of my friends), do what I do because it is my passion, not to rack up hours, and I think that can be seen in essays, interviews, and recs. Adcoms are very experienced in reading apps, they know when someone is being sincere and is truly passionate about volunteer work or some other EC.</p>