It’s common knowledge that good grades and test scores play a huge role in college admission decisions. But what about extracurricular activities? Do you need extracurriculars for college?
If you’re feeling a little stressed about the admission process, take a deep, calming breath. No two students’ applications are alike. This is ideal, as it allows colleges to admit a diverse class of students who will bring a variety of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences to the campus.
In other words, just because one of your peers has an impressive laundry list of extracurriculars does not mean you have to, as well. Take a closer look at the topic of participating in extracurriculars for college and then figure out your next steps.
Do You Need Extracurriculars for College?
College applicants can often benefit from participating in extracurricular activities during high school to boost their competitiveness during the admission process. At some institutions, admissions reviews take into account the full range of a student’s high school experiences, including extracurricular activities.
Participating in extracurricular activities can demonstrate to college admission teams that you have varied interests; that you have the dedication necessary to stick with an activity for multiple years; and that you are willing to tackle additional responsibilities.(See disclaimer 1)
Although many colleges do look at an applicant’s extracurriculars,(See disclaimer 1 )this is not universal. Grand Canyon University, for example, does not look at or consider an applicant’s high school extracurriculars; GCU’s admission requirements are based on a student’s GPA.
What Are Extracurriculars?
An extracurricular is any activity you participate in during high school that isn’t a regular class. Extracurricular activities can vary greatly, including activities that fall into these categories:
These activities could include playing baseball, working on the yearbook committee or participating in the Spanish club. Extracurriculars also include hobbies that you enjoy outside of any school or community structure, such as knitting, archery or bird watching.
Extracurriculars even include family responsibilities. If you’re responsible for providing a great deal of childcare for a younger sibling or eldercare for a grandparent, these activities count as extracurriculars, as does working in a family business.
Jobs and internships are also examples of extracurricular activities. Many colleges value work experience as indicative of responsibility and independence.
However, remember that work and school, while important, aren’t the only things life has to offer. Scooping ice cream may not be your true passion — try finding a niche in theatre, team sports, community service or church. On the other hand, if your job is in an area you’re passionate about, try leaving your mark by introducing a new way to get the job done.
"It's a way to give back to your community that has always given back to you. The reason why I've always loved volunteering is because I've done it since I was a little girl, and my parents always took me. It meant alot to me. God has given us so much, everything we have until this day, so it’s just having simple ways to give back is so important. That's why this club means a lot to me. Yeah, I'm really passionate about it." — Shangun Kamboj, GCU Bachelor of Science in Biology: Pre-Med Emphasis Student
How Extracurriculars Can Support College and Career Readiness
Setting aside their role in college admission at most universities, extracurricular activities can be beneficial for you in other ways. They can support college and career readiness in the following ways:(See disclaimer 2)
Additionally, participating in extracurriculars may help you grow in confidence and self-esteem,(See disclaimer 3) which can support your transition to college and adult life thereafter.
What Extracurriculars Do Colleges Like?
There are no universal “best” extracurriculars for college. Rather, it’s best to choose the activities that you are truly passionate about. Find one or more activities that are a good fit for you, personally, rather than a blend of activities that you feel might impress an admissions panel.(See disclaimer 4)
Remember that quality is more important than quantity. Don’t sign up for 10 different activities. Instead, focus on just one to three activities you’re truly interested in, and stick with them consistently throughout high school.(See disclaimer 4)
Best Extracurriculars for College Applications
Although the extracurriculars you should choose will be unique to your interests, there are certain types of activities that colleges like to see, such as those that:(See disclaimer 5)
Remember to choose activities based on your interests. Here are some ideas that might inspire you:
Is There Such a Thing as Too Many Extracurriculars?
It’s possible. At first, you may want to join a handful of different activities to see what fits you best, but you shouldn’t spread yourself thin. It’s better to find a few things (or even just one thing) that you really excel at and are passionate about rather than joining multiple clubs.
It’s all about balance. Depth and consistency are also important. Universities increasingly seeking students who demonstrate meaningful engagement rather than superficial participation across numerous activities.(See disclaimer 6)
For example, let’s say you’re great at tennis and want to be a reporter. Show continual participation in the tennis team and school newspaper instead of also joining band and a club for future auto technicians.
What If You Don’t Have Extracurriculars Yet?
It’s never too late! There’s still time to try your hand at several different activities before you send in your college applications. If you’ve never really been into competitive sports, try a solo activity like running or consider joining a recreational league.
Always wanted to learn to play the guitar? Now is the time! You don’t have to be a rock star, but picking up something new shows a willingness to try new things.
Great at math? Consider becoming a tutor to help a student who may be struggling. Volunteering in your community is also a great choice. There are countless ways to get involved in your local community, and not only will they look great on an application, but you’ll also be helping someone in need.
Getting Involved on Campus at GCU
Although Grand Canyon University does not consider high school extracurriculars when making admission decisions, our school does cultivate a lively campus experience for our students. On our campus in the heart of Phoenix, you can get as involved in campus life as you wish, with plenty of college extracurricular activities to choose from.
Our students have access to a broad selection of clubs and other student organizations, enabling you to pursue your personal, academic and professional interests beyond the classroom.
Our menu of over 120 clubs includes:
Even if you’re not a college athlete, you can bring glory to God through your athletic talents with GCU’s intramural sports organizations. Any undergraduate student, regardless of ability, may join an intramural sport, and many of our faculty members participate, as well.
Some of our intramurals include:
Pursue Academic and Personal Growth at GCU
No matter what your interests and career goals are, you can find your fit at GCU. We support our students as they work toward academic excellence and enjoy our many on-campus activities, including routinely scheduled worship services. Fill out the form on this page today to connect with a university counselor and find a bachelor’s degree that’s right for you.
Work toward personal growth as you prepare for your professional future at GCU.
