This blog is a continuation of our “All You Need to Know About Extra-Curricular Activities (Part 1)” blog. Click here to read part one first, or read on to learn more about extra-curricular activities and how to apply them to your post-secondary applications!
Going the Extra Mile
In addition to requesting students’ transcripts, many universities require applicants to complete a supplementary application, which is used to assess students’ skills, interests, and extra-curricular activities to determine if they would be a “good fit” for the program. These applications, which can include a letter of intent, portfolios, short essay responses, and video interviews, are designed to provide schools with a more holistic view of applicants that extends beyond their academic marks.
Central to most of these components is a meaningful, detailed description of one’s extra-curricular activities. Especially now that COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted across the country, students and their parents are wondering evermore: what kinds of extra-curricular activities do universities typically seek from applicants, and what type of information should students include in their descriptions?
Range matters
We encourage students to demonstrate diversity in their responses. Some applicants, for instance, may want to discuss their leadership capacity on their hockey team, their volunteer role as a junior hockey coach, and their part-time job as a hockey referee. Though each of these activities is valuable, schools also want to see breadth across one’s involvement. So, when completing a supplementary application, it is important that students think about how to highlight different skills, strengths, and interests in each of their descriptions. The goal is for students to present themselves as well-rounded.
Students should also think about which extra-curricular activities mirror their post-secondary and career interests. If, for instance, a candidate wishes to apply to a Health Sciences program, it would be beneficial for them to volunteer or work in a clinic, pharmacy, hospital, or any healthcare environment, where they would be able to apply their skills and learn more about their (future) field.
What should be included in the description?
Students should personalize each description of their roles and responsibilities so that it is unique. Every response should highlight students’ skills, values, interests, and strengths. Applicants’ participation in extra-curricular activities should reflect critical qualities and competencies, such as leadership, teamwork, initiative, achievement, commitment, communication, social responsibility, and breadth.
Universities are particularly interested in students’ engagement both within and outside of their school. They want to know that applicants are active in and seeking out ways to give back to their communities.
We are here to help
Our Educational Consultants are always happy to talk about which extra-curricular (and gap year) opportunities may be a good fit, and our Writing Coaches are eager to work with students to help craft any applications. Contact us today to book your appointment!
