When it comes to college applications, your grades and test scores matter—but they’re only part of the picture. Colleges also want to see who you are outside the classroom. That’s where extracurricular activities come in. Thoughtfully chosen activities can help your application stand out and show colleges that you’re passionate, committed, and well-rounded. But with so many options, how do you decide which extracurriculars to pursue? Here’s a guide to help you choose the right ones.
1. Quality Over Quantity
A common myth is that you need to join as many clubs and activities as possible to impress colleges. In reality, admissions officers are more impressed by depth than breadth. They want to see that you’ve made a real commitment to a few things you care about—not that you’ve dabbled in ten different clubs. Stick with activities you genuinely enjoy and look for opportunities to grow your involvement over time.
For example, joining your school’s newspaper as a freshman and eventually becoming editor-in-chief shows initiative and leadership. That’s much more compelling than joining five clubs and not playing a meaningful role in any of them.
2. Follow Your Interests
Instead of trying to guess what colleges want to see, start with what you love to do. Whether it’s painting, coding, volunteering, or playing a sport, your passion will shine through. Colleges appreciate students who are curious and self-motivated. If your interests fall outside traditional school clubs, that’s okay too—independent projects, internships, part-time jobs, and online courses also count as extracurriculars.
One student might spend hours researching climate change solutions and start a local environmental initiative. Another might build a following on YouTube or run a small business. These activities show drive and creativity—qualities colleges value highly.
3. Look for Leadership Opportunities
Leadership isn’t just about having a title like “president” or “captain.” It’s about taking initiative and making a difference. Maybe you organized a fundraiser, started a new club, or helped your team overcome a tough season. These experiences help colleges see your ability to lead, collaborate, and solve problems.
As you plan your extracurriculars, think about how you can grow into leadership roles over time. This might mean taking on small responsibilities as a freshman or sophomore and stepping up in bigger ways later.
4. Be Consistent and Committed
Colleges look for long-term commitment. Sticking with an activity for several years shows responsibility and follow-through. It also gives you more chances to develop your skills, make an impact, and tell a strong story in your application.
Try to avoid jumping from one activity to another just to “check boxes.” Instead, build a narrative that reflects your evolving interests and strengths. Think of your extracurriculars as a story you’re writing about who you are and what you care about.
5. Consider Community Impact
Activities that benefit others—like volunteering, advocacy, or peer tutoring—can be especially powerful. They show empathy, leadership, and a willingness to contribute to your community. These qualities align with the mission of many colleges, especially those that emphasize service and civic engagement.
If you care deeply about an issue or group of people, look for ways to get involved. Start a campaign, volunteer regularly, or create a service project that ties into your other interests.
6. Keep an Eye on Balance
While extracurriculars are important, don’t overdo it. Your mental health, sleep, and academic work should always come first. Choose a mix of activities that challenge and excite you—but allow time for rest and reflection too.
Remember, your activities should enhance your high school experience, not overwhelm it.
Choosing the right extracurriculars isn’t about building the “perfect” résumé—it’s about being thoughtful, intentional, and authentic. Colleges want to get to know you, so focus on what brings you joy, where you can make a difference, and how you can grow. The right activities won’t just help you get into college—they’ll help you discover who you are along the way.
