Hi! So, I am a rising junior and was wondering what would look better on my college application. Last year, I went to Harvard Debate for the summer and this year I was thinking of going to Georgetown for a 6 college credit course. But, an amazing service trip came up in Asia, offering 70+ community and service hours (im an IB student so completing my CAS hours is VERY important). Im really confused about what would be best, and what would benefit my learning and college App.
Does anyone have previous experience?
What do colleges like best?
I’d say go on the service trip in Asia. With the college credit course, all colleges will think is, " wow, this kid is fortunate enough to have parent’s who can pay thousands for a summer program". Also, regardless of what colleges think, you’ll probably gain more from the service trip. Going to Asia will give you a perspective on different cultures, and you’ll grow as a person by helping others. Besides, you have plenty of time to take college classes.
Unless, of course, you have to pay for the service trip to Asia, in which case, colleges will still think “wow, this kid is fortunate enough to have parent’s who can pay thousands for a summer program”.
Yes, I would have to pay, but not NEARLY as much as georgetown!
There are plenty of service opportunities right here in the good ol’ USA that will cost a fraction of going to Asia, and will probably look more impressive on an application (not that that should be a reason to do any service trip.)