At a time when the average GPA is higher than ever (a recent study found that 89% of all students were receiving As or Bs in the four core academic subjects), colleges (particularly competitive and highly competitive institutions), consider a number of factors to differentiate between applicants–extracurriculars are one of those factors.
This breakdown should help students evaluate the strength of their extracurricular pursuits.
Level One: The Highest Level of Achievement
Examples:
Winning national-level awards in academics, sports, music, or other fields
Being selected for highly competitive and distinguished summer programs
Initiating and leading a club or organization that receives national-level attention
Engaging in original research projects or contributing to publications
Participation in scientific research, authoring articles, or presenting at conferences
Securing internships at renowned companies, laboratories, or organizations (these internships are often highly selective, offering a unique chance to work alongside experts in the field)
Winning or even participating in prestigious competitions in STEM, humanities, or the arts
Level Two: Exceptional Engagement
Examples:
Holding leadership positions in clubs or sports, demonstrating deep commitment and impact
Achieving All-State level recognition in academics, sports, or music
Consistently volunteering and making a tangible impact on the organization or community
Level Three: Well-Rounded Engagement
Examples:
Holding a minor leadership position in a club or organization
Earning district-level recognitions (ex. UIL or VASE)
Playing a sport for all four years, usually making Varsity, and receiving local awards like Player of the Week
Participating in marching band for all four years, making the top band, and potentially serving as a section leader
Holding a job for an extended period and possibly receiving promotions or recognition over time
Engaging in consistent volunteer work for a chosen cause
Level Four: Standard/Foundational Engagement
These are the activities the majority of students have on their resumes and what colleges see most frequently.
Examples:
Being a member of school clubs or organizations without holding a role or level of responsibility beyond attendance
Participating in JV-level sports for a couple years without reaching the Varsity level or holding a position of leadership
Showing up and participating in marching band with no additional responsibilities, especially if the involvement is three years or less
Holding a job for a very short duration
Volunteering one time for an organization or contributing minimal hours
It is important to note that while the top levels of activities may be the most impactful in highly selective admissions, all extracurriculars contribute to a holistic and well-rounded profile and have worth. Also, the above examples are not exhaustive and don’t address many independent pursuits, hobbies, or passions that a student has that can make them unique (I’m thinking about students who built ant farms for fun or forged their own arrows for archery). So many of the fantastic things students do cannot be categorized or put neatly into boxes.
The takeaway? You do you!