<p>I assume there are probably a number of other students who were once in the same boat as me. </p>
<p>I'm currently a junior, and I didn't really put too much stock into college admissions till now. I never thought about trying to join specific clubs and attain leadership positions, I was more concerned about doing well in the classes I was in and enjoying my free time. And now when I'm getting ready to set up my application, I am realizing how weak my extracurriculurs are. </p>
<p>I realize that at this point, I can't do something that is going to dramtically improve my resume, but I was wondering if anyone was/is in a similiar situation as me. What are some kinds of things that you did over the summer maybe to help? How can I make up for my past 2.5 years of high school? How important are these leadership positions for college apps anyway?</p>
<p>college admission boards are fully aware that many of those long lists of ECs are padded. Don't worry about not having a "hook". Be a strong student, be honest, have good recs. and show yourself in your essays.</p>
<p>I wouldn't join things now to just list them on an application. You wouldn't enjoy yourself and the ploy would look like one. I don't really disagree with what anybody has said so far. In case you find this unsatisfactory, my advice ...</p>
<p>What do you like to do in your spare time? A sport, hobby, subject you even study on your own? If so, you could explore how to do more of the same. Could you find a job, internship, or volunteer activity in your planned field? Don't limit yourself to what your school happens to offer.</p>
<p>Think of what you like to do and find a way to turn that into something you can list on an application, not just to have something for schools to look at, but as something you would enjoy doing and would tell potential schools what you are like.</p>