My son’s team just got the first place in a programming-related event on the state FBLA and is going to the nationals. I haven’t heard of FBLA until he started this year, so I’m a bit lost here. Is this a thing that will impress top colleges in a STEM-oriented kid, or just one of a number of “also-done” contests? In practical terms, we had an argument on whether he should spend time on trying to place at the nationals (not sure this is very likely) now when tons of exams are coming up.
He should always worry about his grades in his classes first.
If you look at section C7 of college’s common data sets, it talks about what is Most Important, Important, Considered or Not consiered. GPA and SAT/ACT area always Most important, and ECs are usually Important.
top FBLA award is sort of a big deal
@bopper I’m not too worried about his grades, we’re talking about maybe a difference between 800 and 780 SAT subject test or something like this.
Both my children got some kind of FBLA placements, probably at the national level. At least they went to the nationals. And both got into some quite selective schools. But then I don’t know if FBLA had anything to do with it because their overall package is not bad. If your son is interested in pursing it, I’d encourage it.