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Riya
Student
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How important is it to colleges that your extracurriculars in high school match up with your future major I want to go into mechanical engineering, but all the clubs I am in aren't related to that. I'm not looking to go into an ivy or a top 20, but I would like to be considered competitive for other good schools like Purdue or Georgia/Virginia Tec?
How important is it to colleges that your extracurriculars in high school match up with your future major?
I want to go into mechanical engineering, but all the clubs I am in aren't related to that. I'm not looking to go into an ivy or a top 20, but I would like to be considered competitive for other good schools like Purdue or Georgia/Virginia Tec
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13 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Riya some of the top reasons college like to see extracurricular activities is it shows you can stick with an activity for an extended period time. The reasons colleges value extracurricular activities is they provide opportunities for personal development, skill acquisition, and leadership development. Additionally, extracurricular involvement showcases interests and a well-rounded personality, enriching the college experience and applicant profile.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extracurriculars can also demonstrate dedication, teamwork, and time management skills, all of which are highly valued by college admissions committees.
• CULTIVATE LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Most high school extracurricular activities provide an opportunity to take on a leadership role. In that role students will be given responsibilities and learn to communicate with their peers from a position of authority. This develops needed skills for the future, and it also looks great on college applications.
• ENHANCES TEAMWORK EXPERIENCE
Whether playing a sport, participating in a club, or performing in a play, students will be working with their peers. While coursework is typically an individual activity, extracurricular activities teach students how to work with different types of people. Being a team player and adapting to their environment will benefit them in the future.
• DEVELOPS TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS
High school is a busy time. Students have a lot going on, from academics to sports to clubs. When students take part in extracurricular activities, they will learn how to manage their time effectively out of necessity. Juggling several assignments and activities is a skill that will put them ahead of the game when they’re in college.
• PROMOTES NETWORKING SKILLS
During practice, rehearsal, or club meetings, students are interacting with their peers and making new friends with similar interests. Finding common ground and striking up conversation is the cornerstone of success in the professional world. This develops the networking skills they will need in the future.
• FOSTERS CONFIDENCE
The more students accomplish, the more confident they become. In their extracurricular activities, students will learn how to work hard, have fun, and accomplish their goals. This establishes a strong foundation and instills confidence to help them advance in the future.
• INCREASES ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
If students take part in activities they are passionate about, they will learn concentration and focus. That concentration will carry over into their academic life and improve their academic performance. In particular, if students are involved in sports or performing arts, they will gain endurance and achieve stamina that is needed to perform well academically.
• SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Playing sports in high school offers endless benefits, from learning to work together to athletic scholarships. You can pursue any sport and any position in that sport — as long as you’re consistent and able to maintain your grades. Participating in a sport also shows you can balance competing priorities, especially if you have a leadership role. As a team captain, for example, you’re proving to colleges that you can show up for your team, manage conflict, and motivate others.
CONCLUSION
Colleges would much prefer to see students who are engaged in a handful of activities that they are committed to than for them to be loosely involved in many activities. Sticking with activities for a long time, rather than jumping to a new endeavor every few months, can demonstrate hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm.
Hope this was helpful Riya
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extracurriculars can also demonstrate dedication, teamwork, and time management skills, all of which are highly valued by college admissions committees.
• CULTIVATE LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Most high school extracurricular activities provide an opportunity to take on a leadership role. In that role students will be given responsibilities and learn to communicate with their peers from a position of authority. This develops needed skills for the future, and it also looks great on college applications.
• ENHANCES TEAMWORK EXPERIENCE
Whether playing a sport, participating in a club, or performing in a play, students will be working with their peers. While coursework is typically an individual activity, extracurricular activities teach students how to work with different types of people. Being a team player and adapting to their environment will benefit them in the future.
• DEVELOPS TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS
High school is a busy time. Students have a lot going on, from academics to sports to clubs. When students take part in extracurricular activities, they will learn how to manage their time effectively out of necessity. Juggling several assignments and activities is a skill that will put them ahead of the game when they’re in college.
• PROMOTES NETWORKING SKILLS
During practice, rehearsal, or club meetings, students are interacting with their peers and making new friends with similar interests. Finding common ground and striking up conversation is the cornerstone of success in the professional world. This develops the networking skills they will need in the future.
• FOSTERS CONFIDENCE
The more students accomplish, the more confident they become. In their extracurricular activities, students will learn how to work hard, have fun, and accomplish their goals. This establishes a strong foundation and instills confidence to help them advance in the future.
• INCREASES ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
If students take part in activities they are passionate about, they will learn concentration and focus. That concentration will carry over into their academic life and improve their academic performance. In particular, if students are involved in sports or performing arts, they will gain endurance and achieve stamina that is needed to perform well academically.
• SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Playing sports in high school offers endless benefits, from learning to work together to athletic scholarships. You can pursue any sport and any position in that sport — as long as you’re consistent and able to maintain your grades. Participating in a sport also shows you can balance competing priorities, especially if you have a leadership role. As a team captain, for example, you’re proving to colleges that you can show up for your team, manage conflict, and motivate others.
CONCLUSION
Colleges would much prefer to see students who are engaged in a handful of activities that they are committed to than for them to be loosely involved in many activities. Sticking with activities for a long time, rather than jumping to a new endeavor every few months, can demonstrate hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm.
Hope this was helpful Riya
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Riya,
It is good to hear that you are considering how your extra curricular work will look to schools that you are applying for, specially the more prestigious ones. Even though there is a chance it might help getting into the program you would like, there is also the chance it might not. Extra circulars typically are not the ultimate deciding factor. Even if you do not participate in extra circulars at your school, you can always begin to work on it individually. Someone who is self taught might look just as impressive, if not more, than someone who was in a club. If not, go to the teacher directly and tell them you are interested and eager. They might allow you to join if you find the time. Also, in your personal statement, you can always mention the clubs that you are a part of and how they benefit you and how that can relate to becoming an engineer student. Share how passionate you are and how hard working you are. Also, do your best to keep up your grades, make sure to study hard and go to your teacher for help if needed.
Best of luck with your journey!
It is good to hear that you are considering how your extra curricular work will look to schools that you are applying for, specially the more prestigious ones. Even though there is a chance it might help getting into the program you would like, there is also the chance it might not. Extra circulars typically are not the ultimate deciding factor. Even if you do not participate in extra circulars at your school, you can always begin to work on it individually. Someone who is self taught might look just as impressive, if not more, than someone who was in a club. If not, go to the teacher directly and tell them you are interested and eager. They might allow you to join if you find the time. Also, in your personal statement, you can always mention the clubs that you are a part of and how they benefit you and how that can relate to becoming an engineer student. Share how passionate you are and how hard working you are. Also, do your best to keep up your grades, make sure to study hard and go to your teacher for help if needed.
Best of luck with your journey!
John Morehouse
Research Lead for Manufacturing
5
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Riya,
It's fantastic that you're exploring extracurricular activities and asking questions about them! Getting involved in these activities can really help you discover and understand your interests while building important skills. I have a background in mechanical engineering and worked in design and manufacturing for several years. Although I enjoyed those roles, my career took some unexpected turns, and now I write about trends in the manufacturing industry - which I really enjoy!
Growing up in a rural area, my extracurricular activities included school sports and tinkering with cars and equipment on my family's farm. These experiences were crucial in shaping me both personally and professionally. If I could change one thing, however, I would have tried a wider variety of activities while keeping the ones I loved. This approach can broaden your horizons, introduce you to new people, and challenge you to learn outside your comfort zone. I sometimes wonder if exploring different activities might have led me to my passion sooner.
I hope this encourages you!
It's fantastic that you're exploring extracurricular activities and asking questions about them! Getting involved in these activities can really help you discover and understand your interests while building important skills. I have a background in mechanical engineering and worked in design and manufacturing for several years. Although I enjoyed those roles, my career took some unexpected turns, and now I write about trends in the manufacturing industry - which I really enjoy!
Growing up in a rural area, my extracurricular activities included school sports and tinkering with cars and equipment on my family's farm. These experiences were crucial in shaping me both personally and professionally. If I could change one thing, however, I would have tried a wider variety of activities while keeping the ones I loved. This approach can broaden your horizons, introduce you to new people, and challenge you to learn outside your comfort zone. I sometimes wonder if exploring different activities might have led me to my passion sooner.
I hope this encourages you!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Riya !
As you're probably already aware, there are several factors that colleges look at when they evaluate an applicant's admission papers. Since you're asking about the Extracurricular part, I will provide some advice for you about that.
Since you will be Majoring in Mechanical Engineering, I think it's safe to say that most universities understand that most high schools do not offer Mechanical Engineering clubs or extracurriculars. They like to see that a student has generally been active and consistently for the four years of high school. All of the clubs and activities or volunteer work you have done will have provided you with valuable skills and reflect an involved student and a student that is interested in learning and can work well in groups as well as independently. So I would rest easy about your clubs and involvement and the fact that it's only one thing they consider.
Also realize that admission acceptance cannot be generalized, pre-planned or determined - the admission staff does that. Who gets admitted cannot be predicted and a student can do their best by having a complete application package submitted, on time, and wait to hear back from the college.
One thing that can be a sort of indication but not a guarantee one way or the other is to learn about the acceptance rates of the universities you have mentioned. The acceptance rate is a percentage of students accepted out of all the students that apply.
Now, Purdue University is a moderate acceptance university with an acceptance rate of 49% which isn't bad. Now with Georgia Tech University, you'll see that it is more competitive than Purdue with an acceptance rate of 16%. That means out of thousands of applicants, 16 % are accepted. As for Virginia Tech University, that is the best with an acceptance rate of 57%. The decision on who is accepted is totally up to the college, so my advice is to apply to all three colleges. Target the colleges you want and don't let anything like acceptance rates deter you from applying.
My opinion about what could be the most competitive factor in college admission would be your High School GPA and your score on the SAT exam. In my view, I think that carries more weight than the content of the extracurriculars. Get a lot of opinions about this but try not to over-plan or worry about it.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
As you're probably already aware, there are several factors that colleges look at when they evaluate an applicant's admission papers. Since you're asking about the Extracurricular part, I will provide some advice for you about that.
Since you will be Majoring in Mechanical Engineering, I think it's safe to say that most universities understand that most high schools do not offer Mechanical Engineering clubs or extracurriculars. They like to see that a student has generally been active and consistently for the four years of high school. All of the clubs and activities or volunteer work you have done will have provided you with valuable skills and reflect an involved student and a student that is interested in learning and can work well in groups as well as independently. So I would rest easy about your clubs and involvement and the fact that it's only one thing they consider.
Also realize that admission acceptance cannot be generalized, pre-planned or determined - the admission staff does that. Who gets admitted cannot be predicted and a student can do their best by having a complete application package submitted, on time, and wait to hear back from the college.
One thing that can be a sort of indication but not a guarantee one way or the other is to learn about the acceptance rates of the universities you have mentioned. The acceptance rate is a percentage of students accepted out of all the students that apply.
Now, Purdue University is a moderate acceptance university with an acceptance rate of 49% which isn't bad. Now with Georgia Tech University, you'll see that it is more competitive than Purdue with an acceptance rate of 16%. That means out of thousands of applicants, 16 % are accepted. As for Virginia Tech University, that is the best with an acceptance rate of 57%. The decision on who is accepted is totally up to the college, so my advice is to apply to all three colleges. Target the colleges you want and don't let anything like acceptance rates deter you from applying.
My opinion about what could be the most competitive factor in college admission would be your High School GPA and your score on the SAT exam. In my view, I think that carries more weight than the content of the extracurriculars. Get a lot of opinions about this but try not to over-plan or worry about it.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
Jacob Perincheril
Consulting
4
Answers
Hawthorne, New Jersey
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Extracurricular activities don't have to match your future major, and that's perfectly fine. I played the drums, chess, and basketball. These activities help you learn important life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. I encourage you to join activities that you enjoy and focus on doing your best while having fun. High school will be over before you know it, so enjoy every moment. Don't stress about your career now; you have plenty of time to figure it out!
Whitney Stevens
Technology Strategy
11
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Whitney’s Answer
Hi Riya -
I would argue that it's better that you can explain why you did each extracurricular vs. that they each need to be relevant for a future major. Being able to explain "the why" means that you purposefully chose how to spend your time and had a clear passion/reason behind it. If 1 of them aligns to your future major I think that would show commitment and understanding in the major you are choosing but I would say to diversify the rest to try new things and see what else you like doing, don't like doing, and have fun!
I would argue that it's better that you can explain why you did each extracurricular vs. that they each need to be relevant for a future major. Being able to explain "the why" means that you purposefully chose how to spend your time and had a clear passion/reason behind it. If 1 of them aligns to your future major I think that would show commitment and understanding in the major you are choosing but I would say to diversify the rest to try new things and see what else you like doing, don't like doing, and have fun!
Lirio Delgado
14
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
Your extracurriculars don't have to match your major, especially if you’re not trying to get into like Ivy League or top 10 schools. I’m in the same boat, I wanna do nursing, but most of the clubs I’m in aren’t really related to that. For schools like Purdue, Georgia Tech, or Virginia Tech, it probably helps if you have some STEM stuff, but it’s not a huge deal if you don’t. What matters more is showing that you’re involved and that you care about the things you do. If you’ve been consistent and maybe took on some leadership or made an impact, that’s still impressive. It wouldn't hurt to try to get into something related to engineering, like robotics or a science/tech club, just to show your interest. But honestly, as long as your grades in math and science are solid and you can explain why you want to do engineering, you’ll be fine.
Christopher Williams, CEBS, PMP
Senior Engagement Manager
69
Answers
Woodstock, Georgia
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Riya,
I have two kids in college, so I've learned a bit about this. Colleges use extracurricular activities to see more about a student than just grades and test scores. While academics are important, extracurriculars can really make a difference, especially for students with unique backgrounds. Here’s why they matter:
Show Well-Roundedness: Colleges like students with a variety of interests and skills.
Show Character and Passions: These activities can highlight leadership and responsibility outside of school.
Highlight Unique Experiences: They help students stand out with their special experiences.
Show Attributes: Extracurriculars can show a student's work ethic and growth potential, which are important for success.
Contribute to the Community: Colleges look for students who will add positively to campus life.
Hope this helps!
I have two kids in college, so I've learned a bit about this. Colleges use extracurricular activities to see more about a student than just grades and test scores. While academics are important, extracurriculars can really make a difference, especially for students with unique backgrounds. Here’s why they matter:
Show Well-Roundedness: Colleges like students with a variety of interests and skills.
Show Character and Passions: These activities can highlight leadership and responsibility outside of school.
Highlight Unique Experiences: They help students stand out with their special experiences.
Show Attributes: Extracurriculars can show a student's work ethic and growth potential, which are important for success.
Contribute to the Community: Colleges look for students who will add positively to campus life.
Hope this helps!
Abhishek Singhal
4
Answers
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
Colleges want to see your passion for the major you choose, and GPAs only tell part of the story. Extracurricular activities let you show who you really are beyond just grades and test scores. When you dive deep into what you love, it shows you're serious about your major and have been working on it. Having a range of interests also highlights your well-rounded personality, leadership skills, and community involvement.
Ram Ramdattan
Consulting
9
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Ram’s Answer
Hi Riya,
I think it may be somewhat important, but in the absence of that, you can draw parallels to club activities and insights into your chosen path of mechanical engineering. As an example, let's say you are in a cycling club, then you can talk about power produced by a cyclist in watts and correlate that to a generator or DC motor- ie how does one measure the power in each situation, what are the variables that influence power in each case, what are some trade-offs( eg the cost of the cyclist being tired with more power produced vs the $ cost of the wear and tear in a motor). Anyways that was an example, but you can think of several others and draw parallels and insights with your college application essay. That will show 3 things to the reader immediately - 1) you are thoughtful and have potential as a problem solver in mechanical engineering 2) you are analytical assuming you throw in some numbers which is important for any engineer 3) you have done some early reading and or practicals into the field of mechanical engineering to draw these insights with your clubs.
So in summary don't give too much weight into being directly matched, rather figure out how you can join the dots to your chosen track. Good luck on your career journey!
I think it may be somewhat important, but in the absence of that, you can draw parallels to club activities and insights into your chosen path of mechanical engineering. As an example, let's say you are in a cycling club, then you can talk about power produced by a cyclist in watts and correlate that to a generator or DC motor- ie how does one measure the power in each situation, what are the variables that influence power in each case, what are some trade-offs( eg the cost of the cyclist being tired with more power produced vs the $ cost of the wear and tear in a motor). Anyways that was an example, but you can think of several others and draw parallels and insights with your college application essay. That will show 3 things to the reader immediately - 1) you are thoughtful and have potential as a problem solver in mechanical engineering 2) you are analytical assuming you throw in some numbers which is important for any engineer 3) you have done some early reading and or practicals into the field of mechanical engineering to draw these insights with your clubs.
So in summary don't give too much weight into being directly matched, rather figure out how you can join the dots to your chosen track. Good luck on your career journey!
Jamie Mathews
Construction and Engineering Administration
34
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
It's not directly important but may come into play if you getting applications for scholarships. The main thing is to show that you are active inside school and outside school as well. Even if your activities aren't necessarily related to school activities you want to give an idea that your interests do lie in the field. A big school program was the robotics program as it is practical skills matched with teamwork as you build your robot to compete.
Shreya Toliya
Oracle HCM Cloud Consultant
30
Answers
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Updated
Shreya’s Answer
You’re right to focus on extracurricular activities, but it’s important to remember that colleges consider your entire application, not just one part. Since you’re planning to major in Mechanical Engineering, universities understand that most high schools don’t offer specific clubs for this field. What matters is that you’ve been active and consistent in your involvement throughout high school, whether through clubs, volunteer work, or other activities. These experiences show that you’re engaged, can work well with others, and are eager to learn—qualities that colleges value.
Keep in mind that college admissions decisions can’t be predicted or guaranteed, as each school’s admissions staff evaluates applications holistically. Acceptance rates can give you a general idea of how competitive a school is, but they shouldn’t discourage you from applying to places you’re interested in. For example, Purdue University has an acceptance rate of about 49%, Georgia Tech is more competitive at 16%, and Virginia Tech is less competitive at 57%. It’s a good strategy to apply to all three if you’re interested, regardless of their acceptance rates.
Ultimately, your high school GPA and SAT scores often carry more weight than your extracurriculars, though all parts of your application are important. Focus on doing your best in school, preparing well for standardized tests, and continuing your involvement in activities you enjoy. Submit a complete and thoughtful application to each college, and then wait for their decision. Don’t stress too much about any one factor—just aim to present yourself as a well-rounded and committed student.
Good luck!
Keep in mind that college admissions decisions can’t be predicted or guaranteed, as each school’s admissions staff evaluates applications holistically. Acceptance rates can give you a general idea of how competitive a school is, but they shouldn’t discourage you from applying to places you’re interested in. For example, Purdue University has an acceptance rate of about 49%, Georgia Tech is more competitive at 16%, and Virginia Tech is less competitive at 57%. It’s a good strategy to apply to all three if you’re interested, regardless of their acceptance rates.
Ultimately, your high school GPA and SAT scores often carry more weight than your extracurriculars, though all parts of your application are important. Focus on doing your best in school, preparing well for standardized tests, and continuing your involvement in activities you enjoy. Submit a complete and thoughtful application to each college, and then wait for their decision. Don’t stress too much about any one factor—just aim to present yourself as a well-rounded and committed student.
Good luck!
Ron Llanes
Mechanical Engineer
2
Answers
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Updated
Ron’s Answer
College requires you to really manage your time well. A lot of time commitment is needed to really do well in your courses. Having extracurricular activities in high school while maintaining really good grades is a great way of showing that you can manage expectations. So I feel that your activities show more about your time-management skills than your interest in a particular major.
Additionally, characteristics like teamwork, leadership, allyship resonate with colleges, regardless of the extracurricular activities which you are involved.
As a mechanical engineer myself, I know that you will find engineering a fruitful career regardless of your college choice. Riya, I wish you best of luck with your college future.
Additionally, characteristics like teamwork, leadership, allyship resonate with colleges, regardless of the extracurricular activities which you are involved.
As a mechanical engineer myself, I know that you will find engineering a fruitful career regardless of your college choice. Riya, I wish you best of luck with your college future.