Q: Does extracurricular involvement really matter?
A: Yes, yes, yes and YES!
Just like the stage manager who sees many actors auditioning for a role, admissions directors see many students—and after awhile, they all look and sound the same.
You have to learn how to stand out. You have to show a different quality that will add to the school’s community. Extracurricular involvement is the best way to accomplish that.
By getting involved, you show the admissions office that you are an eclectic person with much to offer outside the classroom.
The college experience, especially on a campus, is a community with a strong social component. There are numerous clubs and organizations. There are competitive teams and intramural sports, and the support of the student union to create activities that benefit the campus.
Showing your involvement in outside activities represents your leadership attributes and strength in multitasking. These qualities bode well. They also will give you more contacts,
who can provide you with recommendations!
Antonio Aponte is the director of Educational Services at the Boys’ Club of New York (bcny.org) and founder of the Latino College Expo, Inc. (latinocollegeexpo.org).