So currently, my EC’s are really average. I want to up my game. I’ve been in Medical Society, Kiwins, and Joni’s Angels clubs at my school. I also volunteer at the hospital each week for an hour and a half and I take martial arts (aikido).
This is my first year of HS so I didn’t think about EC’s so much until I noticed the EC’s of some of my competitive peers. Some are even in competitions to play at Carnegie Hall. It’s not the competition I’m worried about, but the dullness of my schedule. I don’t have any outstanding EC’s yet since it’s a bit soon for me.
This summer I plan on signing up for 3 more volunteering opportunities and taking preparatory classes. I know I can just sign up for more clubs, but I’d like some interesting EC suggestions.
As far as signing up for more and more and more clubs is concerned, what matters is quality not quantity. Focus in depth on a few activities you’re actually interested in.
There is no point into getting in to more and more clubs unless you are looking to find something that you like. Then you should drop most of the clubs and only keep few that deeply interest you. Also there is no point to compare to classmates for things that are not attainable. Kids that are in very high levels of ECs in subjects that require practicing from the age of 5 are not attainable for you now. By all means learn a instrument if you like and enjoy but don’t do it for your resume. On the other hand look for meaningful opportunities for you in you high school and/or you community. It is hard to make suggestions since we do not know what it is available and what exactly set of skills you have. For example you are interested in health and you are a very organized person. You can step up your hospital volunteering by helping organize the volunteers. Or you might be great in outreach or a great writer or whatever and use that skill in your volunteering or club you like. Good luck.
Take a breath. Those friends who impress you, as a freshman, haven’t been admitted anywhere yet.
As said, it’s quality, not quantity. And rather than bogus titles, try to increase your actual responsibilities over time.
You’re fine for ECs most people say my list is pretty impressive and I had measly ECs freshman year. Join a club of something you are interested in then work up to a leadership position! Or even form your own club. You could also work on a talent or career interest- for example I write articles for various publications. This looks a lot more interesting than measly volunteering for something you have no interest in!
if you want some ideas for ECs check out my latest post of my own