I am a sophomore in high school and have been in my school’s band for the past 2 years (plus all through middle school).
I have made it into the All-District band both years and this year I made it in the All-State band. I am actually looking to quit band because it is so time consuming and personally I do not like it. This being only one of my extra-curricular activities would be replaced with another next year (junior year). How much would this affect my college applications if I am looking at nicer schools?
If you are doing something more meaningful with your time, I wouldn’t worry about it.
If you don’t like it, I guess the best option would be to quit. But the time commitment and opportunities for leadership are harder to find elsewhere. I think band is a really great EC.
I do agree that it is a great leadership/team opportunity, but can you possibly recommend any other ECs that would look good? I was wanting to try out KUNA or KYA which are leadership/student government focused, possibly join the varsity tennis team, or join the academic team. If it helps I am already in Boy Scouts (about to become eagle) and am on a FIRST robotics team.
It’s hard to recommend something if we don’t know what opportunities you have. Do whichever activity you enjoy most. The most meaningful experience will be the one you like and can write about.
It’s not that big of a deal, especially if quitting means you can improve other parts of your profile (better grades, test scores, other ECs). Plus you can still put band on your list of ECs.
Sticking with something that you don’t like just to help your college application is putting the cart before the horse.
Live your life. Be happy. Then apply to college.
As a practical suggestion, try to form a small ensemble or band. My kids did that and found it a lot more fun and social then orchestra. They hired a private music teacher as a coach.
When you apply your EC is your instrument and you can discuss the many different ways in which music enhances your life.
Life’s too short to do something you hate in the hopes that it will impress someone.
Find an activity you love.