FIVE ways to EFFECTIVELY enhance your extracurricular

If you keep up with college admissions news, Rick Singer, the college consultant behind the fraudulent acceptances of celebrity applicants, is out of prison and back to consulting.

While you CANNOT lie on your resume (unless you want to end up like Lori Loughlin aka Becky from Full House), you can boost your activities with a few simple tips:

1. Show Leadership

Simply participating in clubs and activities is a great start, but taking on leadership roles demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and the ability to inspire others. Colleges love to see that you can lead a group, make decisions, and push a project forward.

• Run for a leadership position in a club you’re already involved in, such as president, secretary, or treasurer.

• Start a new club if your school doesn't have one focused on your passions (e.g., environmental club, coding group).

• Lead a project within an organization, such as organizing a fundraiser or community service event.

2. Create an Impact

Admissions officers want to see impact. It's not just about being involved; it's about making a difference.

• Find ways to solve problems within your organization or community. For example, you could organize a recycling program at your school or a fundraising campaign for a local charity.

• Start a new initiative within your existing activities, like tutoring underclassmen or launching a social media campaign for an event.

3. Combine Your Interests

Sometimes, the best way to stand out is by merging two seemingly unrelated interests. This not only shows creativity but also depth in multiple areas.

• Find intersections between different activities. Are you into both business and art? Try creating an art business where you sell student-made designs.

• Start a unique project. If you're passionate about music and community service, consider organizing a benefit concert to raise funds for a cause you care about.

4. Engage in Research or Independent Projects

Colleges are impressed by students who engage in research or start independent projects, especially if it aligns with their academic interests. These experiences show initiative, curiosity, and dedication to learning.

• Reach out to local professors or professionals in your field of interest to see if there are research or internship opportunities available.

• Start your own project (yes, again). For example, if you’re interested in environmental science, you could conduct a water quality survey in your community and present your findings.

5. Seek Mentorship

Sometimes, the best way to elevate an activity is to get guidance from professionals in the field. Networking and mentorship can open doors to new opportunities, resources, and projects.

• Set up informational interviews with professionals in fields you’re interested in. This could be a family friend, a local business owner, or even a professor at a nearby college.

• Find a mentor who can guide you in your extracurricular activities, whether it’s a coach, teacher, or professional. They can provide advice, feedback, and connections that help you make the most of your involvement.

The college admissions process can be daunting...that's why our program is 4 years long, giving us the time to work with you to guide and brainstorm on each component of your application, including extracurriculars. Schedule a call here!

Best,
Melina Kazanas

P.S. - Have a high-performing high schooler w/ a 3.7 GPA or higher? We'll help get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges...and if we don't get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges, you don't pay us a penny.  Seriously.  College admissions isn't rocket science...but it is a science.  And we've cracked the code...year, after year, after year.  You can learn more about our world renowned all-inclusive, start-to-finish college coaching here and to see if your family qualifies for an introductory call.

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