I keep hearing about a “holistic” approach that Brown uses, and that they want self-directed learners. I am currently a freshman, doing activities such as Speech and Debate, Math Competitions, and Drama. Other than test scores, I was just wondering what Brown really looks for in terms of extracurriculars. For instance, are my extracurriculars suitable for a prospective Brown student? Thanks!
Replace MIT with Brown when you read this: http://mitadmissions.org/blogs/entry/applying_sideways
This is an article from my DD’s school: [College Admissions: 10 Extra-Curriculars Colleges Want To See](http://www.golocalprov.com/lifestyle/college-admissions-10-extra-curriculars-colleges-want-to-see)
- []Student Government
[]Debate Team, Mock Trial
[]Academic Teams: Math, Envirothon, Robotics, Decathlon, etc.
[]The Arts: Music, Theatre, Visual Arts
[]Internships, Research Opportunities
[]Diversity Club
[]Community Service
[]School Newspaper, Literary Magazine
[]Job
[]Sports
IMO, many kids put too many clubs/activities like laundry list in their stats. I think the key is quality not quantity. You want to be play a leading role in the activity/club.
They want to see that you take the initiative to use your free time to pursue your interests. Don’t try to build a resume, build an interesting life! And if you find something that interests you, let it take you other places. If you volunteer at a soup kitchen, think about organizing a lobbying trip to see your elected representatives about SNAP legislation. If you play soccer, consider getting a ref license and seeing what the field looks like from that perspective. If you love working for the newspaper, look into summer programs offered by your local TV stations or write a “student beat” for you local paper.
If you try something and don’t like it, move on, but don’t do things just to fI’ll your time.