<p>A little while ago I was part of a team that won Rs. 500000 for our school in an environmental contest. This was one heck of a win, and as a result, we were invited to attend the International Green Building Congress 2007 and make our presentation.</p>
<p>I was also part of a team that won the Chennai segment of a coastal cleanup contest.</p>
<p>I am a member of my school's 'Green Brigade', a group of students who promote environmental awareness within the school.</p>
<p>I'm also currently part of a team which is making a documentary+presentation on a waste dump in the city, and is trying to solve this problem.</p>
<p>Would all this stuff possibly serve as a hook?</p>
<p>Hooks are things that are really, really, really big or just things people can't change about themselves. I wouldn't call this a hook, but it definitely makes you a more interesting candidate.</p>
<p>Thanks guys! Just thought the environmental angle would add a nice touch to my EC's. Oh and FWIW, the Rs 500000 we won is gonna be used to implement lots of eco-friendly measures within the school, and the team of us is going to decide exactly what measures are implemented (basically we're in charge of how the money is spent)</p>
<p>While I have to agree that it isn't a hook (you'd have to be a published author or have competed in the olympics or something along those lines) it definitely makes you an interesting applicant, and the level on which you've competed is definitely going to help and give you an edge over other applicants at top schools.</p>
<p>Green is big. I think it will most likely help you with your applications. It shows that you are consistantly passionate about something, and it is something that is worth while. It also shows that you are a contributing member of a communit. Now what you need to do is to show some leadership. Don't just be a member, be an officer. You will be able to write some good essays out of this EC. This EC will serve you well, but I don't believe you are doing it just to get into colleges.</p>
<p>I am DEFINITELY not doing it just to get into a college; I'm doing it because I really do care about the environment!</p>
<p>See, the thing is, there's no 'club' system in India. So that just wouldn't work. Do you guys have any other ideas about how I can go more green?</p>
<p>you should definitely explain that on your apps then, or have your counselor explain that. You might consider starting a website or a blog about your efforts or to inform people--it's been done before, but on an issue of such importance, a new perspective can never hurt.</p>
<p>Your commitment to the environment is the kind of EC that admissions officers remember when reading an application, and it will help you application stand out, which is really important. Just make sure your passion comes through in your essays as well. Well done!</p>