<p>I am active in several different extracurricular activities, but I'm afraid they are too common for them to make me stand out in college applications. I'm in a few clubs, volunteer at the library, and will be getting a part-time job soon. I still have had no leadership positions in my clubs, so that's something I'll try to do this year. But what else can I do that will boost up my extracurricular activities and increase my chances of being admitted into an elite university? Because I feel like I have no shot at Ivies or elite schools with the activities I've been in thus far.</p>
<p>Do something you really like. Do you like singing, performing? Do you like any sport? Do you like writing? Do you play any instruments? Painting?
Spontaneously, the ecs that would stand out in my eyes are for example ballroom dancing or modeling, things people don’t usually do. If you could tell me a little more aobut what you like, maybe I could help a little more :)</p>
<p>the EC’s that should help you out the most are the ones you are most passionate about and dedicate the most time too!</p>
<p>Hmm… Let’s see… Oh, yeah, uhh, jumping off 7+ stairs in rollerblades (very doable, actually; just deal with the pain when you first start), skydiving every weekend, rock climbing a steep mountain at least three times every month, shooting shotguns at 70 mph frisbees flying toward you, etc. </p>
<p>Those will definitely separate you, so go ahead and do it.</p>
<p>EC: Being original enough to think of your own passions.</p>
<p>Try to focus all of your ECs on one area. For example, if you like science, try to have 2 or 3 ECs that involve science.</p>
<p>Resume builders end up getting rejected anyway.</p>
<p>If you like/love something: start your own thing and be original. Let me elaborate</p>
<p>Personally I love writing. I started a music website where I interviewed local bands and covered topics on the local music scene in NYC.</p>
<p>Another thing was since I love film/media, started my own little business/hobby of doing promotional trailers for the various venues/bands/etc in the area. </p>
<p>I also started my own PC repair business.</p>
<p>Did I do this to build my resume? Nah, I never even considered my resume/college at the time. I did these things because I loved all of them. Plus I also got a few bucks on the side :)</p>
<p>My grades/act’s weren’t that good, but I’ve gotten acceptances that seem miraculous, and I am sure it’s because of my EC’s. Be clever, do something you love, innovate, it helps you set yourself apart. But DO not be a resume builder!</p>
<p>completely agree with cobra. that’s some good advice right there. </p>
<p>good luck, OP!! :)</p>
<p>Look at what you’re doing now. What do you really like? And what can you do to take it to a higher level? Are there opportunities outside the school to pursue this activity? For example, if you’re in the Art Club, are there opportunities to exhibit in the community, or shows or contests you can enter? Places to teach younger kids about art? Art therapy volunteering at a senior center?</p>