I never really considered volunteering before right now, and I am a junior in high school. Thus, I have no volunteer hours. I know, I know, but I am asking now, should I find some volunteer opportunities this year/next summer just to have some, or is that not the right attitude (will colleges see through my starting volunteering my junior year)? I otherwise have decent EC’s, including varsity debate team, percussionist in my schools since elementary school, and German National Honors Society.
Colleges want to see who you are in your extra-circulars and that you focus on what you love (hopefully something related to your major). Being on the debate team will be looked at the same way as being a volunteer at your local hospital because in the end, they are both you making good use of your extra time outside of school. That being said, it never hurts to add something more to your resume if its something you love. Searching for volunteer opportunities this summer would be a good idea but it won’t be the make or break between your admission to a school.
It is never too late to give of yourself and you might actually like it. I would try 2 rather quickly and get committed to at least one of them. So many options… excited for you!
Agree you should try. It can be tough during covid, but the best are not just any old unpaid thing. Rather, true community service where you do for those in need.
Good 2nd choice is advocacy.
Not all colleges care, but the tops do. It shows awareness and willingness. And rounding.
PoliText offers great volunteer hours and it is so easy to volunteer with them. It is great if you like topics like human rights or politics. Visit their website!
It also depends on the schools you are applying to and the major you are applying to. In a lot of cases it won’t matter, in some it will be a good talking point on an application if it is something you are passionate about.
Example: Son, in junior year visited a college and talked to the head of a selective program he wanted to get into. The advisor suggested he get some volunteer work working with people going through difficult situations to make him even more competitive for the program. He then volunteered at a hospice. He got into the program.