<p>I've ran cross country for three consecutive years (2 of which I ran Varsity). However, recently I was weighing the values of my xc experience and realized that aside from being a good workout, there isn't much for me in the sport (especially considering the tension between some of my teammates). When I initially joined, it was because I was trying out new things and I wanted the experience of being on a high school team. However, now that its my last year, I'm realizing all of the experiences I've missed out on while spending time on a sport that means nothing to me. Because our season just started, I could drop out without compromising my team and still have the chance to get involved in the clubs and activities I couldn't participate in as an athlete. I hate to quit,but I also feel I have to do what's right for me. Will colleges look down on the fact that I didn't run for all four years if I decide to take something else on instead?</p>
<p>" I hate to quit,but I also feel I have to do what’s right for me." And that’s what colleges want. Don’t overestimate what this one EC will do for your overall profile. Most US colleges don’t care one lick about ECs. You’re better off spending time to boost your SAT retake</p>
<p>Seems like you neither enjoy it, nor are performing at a very high level (regional/state/national awards or recognition, where colleges that consider EC may notice it as more than just an ordinary EC). In that case, it makes sense to replace it with some other sport or EC that you really like.</p>
<p>Technically hasn’t the season already started? It will be over in the blink of an eye. If you hadn’t started this summer, I would say don’t start. But quitting after you’re already in season just looks bad, IMO. Of course, college admins wont see that detail. I’m worried more about what it means to you personally. Commitment is an important quality.</p>
<p>However- if you had some other circumstance-- like you are failing out of a couple of classes due to your xc time commitment, that may be a reason. But it’s always been my experience that kids do better work when they are busy and forced micromanage. </p>
<p>From a parents perspective I would say, see it through. It’s September. You’ll be glad you did.</p>
<p>^^^ Disagree. Strongly disagree.</p>
<p>If you don’t like it, don’t do it. Yes, there’s definitely something to be said for longterm interests . . . but only if it’s something you’re actually interested in! If not, the phrase “longterm interest” doesn’t really apply, does it?</p>
<p>There are very few times in life when you’ll have the opportunity to do anything you want to do. For goodness sakes, take advantage of it! If the season’s just started, get out while the getting’s good and follow your passions.</p>
<p>As for the change hurting your college admissions chances, that would be the case only if you were counting on getting into school as a recruited athlete. Since that appears not to be the case, don’t worry about it.</p>
<p>Drop it like a hot potato. If you were more than halfway through the season, then I would say stay, as a sign of commitment. But if you don’t enjoy being part of the team, and there are other activities you’ve missed out on, you will be miserable, and that can shine through in your essays just as much as passion. Commitment is good, and you show that through the 3 years you were on the team, but so is growth. You’ve outgrown the team, and you recognize that it’s time to move on. Find something you enjoy, and do that instead. Don’t worry about your applications. If you apply to a school where EC’s are more than a footnote, you can explain in your interview.</p>