Quick NHS Community Service Question

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

<p>I know that for NHS including community service is recommended on the Student Application Form. I'm just confused if what I'm doing is actually community service. So far I have participated in a couple school clean ups outside of school time (about 3 hours worth overall). I have helped raise money for the American Cancer Society for a couple of months every weekend and advocated the importance of cancer research--especially stem-cell research and early diagnosis. I also walked 8+ miles in a Relay For Life event to support the cause. </p>

<p>Furthermore, my mom's friend works in educating immigrants on American history and politics, as well as coaches and aids them for their citizenship exam. I, however, don't get paid and I volunteer usually 1 or 2 times a month for at least an hour since freshman year. I educate people, help them prepare for the exam, and aid as language tutor during class. I also make tools, materials, and lesson plans for the class--which consists of people from two cities. I'm even the one that makes the certificate for when they complete the course. </p>

<p>By the way, it wasn't until I actually thought about it that I considered these as community services. I have done these activities for varying lengths but never because I'd thought they'd be counted as service hours. Honestly, I just found causes that I support/believe in and wanted to make a difference, as well as give back and help others.</p>

<p>Are those considered community services? If not, please inform me as to why. Thank you to all that take the time to answer, I really appreciate it. </p>

2

<p>As far as the application to NHS is concerned, any activity where you are consistently spending time and not receiving pay is considered community service or, more accurately, volunteering. I would just include it in the application, only good can come of it. If the person reading your application thinks otherwise, I’m sure it won’t negatively effect your chances of getting in. Don’t stress :)</p>

<p>I barely had any community service activities on my app and I was able to get into NHS…</p>

3

<p>Wow, really? Well, that’s a relief. Honestly, I was stressing out big time. Thanks for the info!</p>

4

<p>No problem :)</p>

<p>Good luck!</p>

5

<p>Those are all definitely community service!</p>

<p>But, depending on your school, you may have to get someone to sign off on the hours. Your mom’s friend, the relay for life people, the person running the school cleanup…etc. Also write all of those things down (or put them in Naviance) so you can remember them for your COmmon app.</p>

6

<p>Great advice, thanks!</p>