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do your extracurriculars in high school have to be related to your major?

I'm in 4 clubs in school and I have leadership positions in most of them, but none of them are related to mechanical engineering. Is that ok if I don't necessarily want to go to an ivy league/t20 school but still want to go to honors programs such as ASU barrett or something?

college college-major extracurriculars
Thank you comment icon Hi- I think you are doing a great job of being involved and having leadership positions. I think what is most important is you pursue an area that you are passionate about. The extracurriculars do not have to necessarily line up exactly with your major. I was involved in college in clubs that were not aligned to my engineering major. I think it is just important what you do with those clubs (e.g., holding leadership positions, continuing them throughout college, being involved). Tatum Shore
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Micah’s Answer

Hi Riya!

Your extra curriculars do not have to be strictly related to your major! I majored in IT for my undergrad. All of my extra curriculars in high school were music related. Having broader interests make you a more valuable student. Keeping your mind open and being generally curious about different things makes you a fantastic choice for colleges. Having leadership positions in these actives only increases the interest. Sometimes it isn't necessarily that you are in a particular club, but what you did in it. The leadership positions show you are someone who is ambitious about many things, and have passion for multiple fields.

A side note as well, having broader interests is a fantastic way to reduce burnout. You're able to switch away from your main work/school mindset.

Good luck!
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Jennifer N’s Answer

Hello Riya,

Great question! Generally, I do not believe your extracurriculars in high school have to be related to the major or minor you plan to pursue in college. The key should be doing something that you're passionate about - and doing something different from your major/minor will show how diverse you are. That's not to say there won't be colleges that are looking for someone focused on their major/minor in all things they do, but if you want to do those extracurriculars, you want a college/university that will support you so will want one that doesn't have such strict requirements. I would suggest doing what makes you happy and you'll find a college/university that will fit your needs.
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Morgan’s Answer

Hi! First of all - I think you're already on a great track by being involved in school and holding leadership positions. In my opinion, this matters more than the extracurriculars themselves being related to engineering. It may be helpful to have one that is related, but overall I believe the goal is to show that you are a well-rounded candidate that is involved in their community. If you maintain solid grades and show yourself to be a driven individual, I don't believe the context of the extracurriculars matters too much!
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Destiny’s Answer

Hello Riya,

This is a great question! I think the other people here have given you great responses, too. It's okay if your extracurricular activities aren't all related to engineering. It may even be an advantage, because you have a broader set of experience and insights from your work in different kinds of clubs. People will definitely note that you took leadership positions, so that could be a positive thing even if you are a leader in different fields.

So, I agree with the others that it's definitely okay for your extracurricular activities to focus on different subjects. If you want to explore extracurriculars related to mechanical engineering, you have several options. Perhaps you could join engineering clubs, or do online activities related to engineering. If you want to go to honors programs, having a good academic record and keeping your grades at a high level may be necessary. But you don't have to be perfect! Just try your best, and I think you'll be just fine.
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J’s Answer

Hey Riya!
😊 So you're wondering if your extracurriculars need to be related to mechanical engineering? The answer is no! 🎉 Colleges love seeing diverse interests and leadership experiences.

Your involvement in 4 clubs and leadership positions is awesome! It shows you're a well-rounded person with skills like leadership, teamwork, and time management. These skills are super valuable in any field, including engineering.

For honors programs like ASU Barrett, focus on highlighting your academic achievements, leadership experiences, and personal growth. Your unique interests and experiences will make your application stand out! 💪 You got this!
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Zack’s Answer

Hi Riya, I don't think you should only do activities related to your major. Colleges like to see that applicants are well-rounded and show leadership. Many activities can give you valuable experiences. For instance, playing a sport can teach you teamwork, and being in a band can show your practice and dedication. It's important to enjoy your extracurricular activities, make friends, and focus on what you love doing.
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Miki’s Answer

No, at the high school level, activities do not need to be in a specific field, but colleges look for more continuity and leadership. Besides, I think not many high schools have clubs related to mechanical engineering. Maybe VEX? However, recently VEX has become too commercialized and does not impress colleges much unless you participate in the World Championships, etc. At least, that’s what we heard from our high school tech teachers. Please continue with the clubs and make sure you take on leadership roles. Demonstrating your broad passions in different fields and excelling as a leader would impress colleges even more.
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Jason’s Answer

Hey Riya,

The answer is no. While obviously it's helpful to have an interest and extra curricular that are tied to ones major. Having interest that are also broad and in other things helps to make you more dynamic and for lack of a better term, interesting. It makes your story unique and different which is also something that many people look for in both college and ultimately employment interviews.
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Ismini’s Answer

Showing leadership is always great. It is also nice to show that you are a well-rounded person with various interests.
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Holly’s Answer

Don't worry about your extracurriculars not being related to your major - there are so many learning experiences within those opportunities that you can easily tie back to your major when applying for colleges! You learn such valuable leadership and team building skills in those experiences and colleges love to see that reflected in applications and essays. Best of luck!
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Abby’s Answer

Hi Riya! Great question! Extracurriculars do not need to be related to your major. I feel like one of the most important things is to be involved and hold leadership positions where you can. Being involved shows you take initiative and being a leader is a characteristic a lot of recruiters want to see. Additionally, you do not need to go to an Ivy league or top 20 school to have a successful career.
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Sherrie’s Answer

It's more important to think about how your extracurricular activities help to tell your story as an individual to the college admissions team. Whether the activities relates to your major or not, they are looking to see your passion and commitment to an activity (or activities), and how those activities help you stand out against all the other applicants.
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Jacob’s Answer

Getting involved in extracurricular activities can really show how well-rounded you are as a student. Colleges love students who bring diverse experiences and skills. You don't have to pick activities that match your future career plans. What's important is showing that you have a variety of interests and can work well with others or take on leadership roles. This will make you stand out and look great to universities.
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L’s Answer

Hi Riya,
No, they don't have to be. The goal of extracurricular activities and clubs is to show your problem-solving skills, take on challenges, and inspire others to use their strengths to help the world. These skills are useful in any field or job because they are universal and valuable. But don't forget to have fun! You'll do your best when you enjoy solving problems and growing. Find what works for you, and start getting involved to make things happen. The world needs your creativity and excitement!
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Jiabao (Jabs)’s Answer

Hi Michelle,

I do not think it has to be. When choosing extracurricular activities in high school, just go with what you are interested. You never know what you are going to find out if you do not try new things. Do not limit yourself.

If you are trying to get into a top program, having a variety of extracurricular is also beneficial because that makes you unique among other applicants. I believe most colleges are looking somebody that could stand out. If anything, it only increases your chances to be admitted by these IVY league schools!
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Yejin’s Answer

I think it is ideal to have extra-curricular activities related to the major you are applying for but I think it is perfectly fine to add in the extra-curricular activities not related to the major as long as you can make those activities related to your personal statement and explain how those activities helped you to find your passion in the major. If you can explain how your extra-curricular activities, even in the different field, made you to choose that major and also explain how things you learned from doing those activities can help you to thrive in the major in your personal statement with details, I think both of your resume and personal statement will be stand out.
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Lynn’s Answer

Not necessarily! While having some activities related to your intended major can show genuine interest and readiness, it's more crucial to demonstrate passion, commtment, and skill development. Colleges value well-rounded individuals who contribute diverse perspectives.
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Aparna’s Answer

Hi Riya, your extracurricular activities don't have to match your future major exactly. They're meant to show that you're a well-rounded person with interests beyond academics. It's wonderful that you have leadership roles, as they show colleges that you're proactive. Try to have a variety of activities, not just ones related to one field. If you're interested in mechanical engineering, you might consider:

- Visiting maker spaces to learn 3D printing and meet others with similar interests.
- Doing DIY projects and kits.
- Joining "Engineers Without Borders," a great service-based club.
- Asking your school's STEM teachers about student organizations you might enjoy.

I hope this helps!
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Shreya’s Answer

Hello Riya,

Most colleges understand that high schools rarely offer mechanical engineering-specific extracurriculars. What matters is that you’ve been active and shown commitment in your clubs—leadership and involvement are valued, regardless of the club’s focus. Admissions decisions depend on many factors, especially GPA and SAT scores, so don’t worry if your activities aren’t directly related to your major. Apply to the colleges you’re interested in and focus on submitting a strong, complete application.

Best of luck!
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Landry’s Answer

Not at all! Extracurricular activities are a bit like your personal style—they’re a way to express who you are. They don’t have to be directly related to your career; instead, they’re a great opportunity to pursue your passions and enjoy what you love during your free time.
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Nika’s Answer

I would say that your extracurriculars in high school do not have to be related to your major. If your school does offer something, that's great! However, many grade schools do not and that is totally fine and does not impact. As long as you put yourself out there and get involved in any extracurricular, that already shows your willingness to step out and get involved in something. Once you go to college, that is the best time to join extracurriculars directly related to your major which you will find many options!
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Lisa’s Answer

Colleges like ASU Barrett love to see leadership, commitment, and passion—even if it’s not directly related to your major. Your club involvement shows you're driven and well-rounded, which is a big plus. Keep doing what you enjoy—you’re on the right track!
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Taler’s Answer

Hi Riya,
It is absolutely ok! While it having related extracurriculars can help enhance your preparedness for your future major, by no means it is it going to be THE determining factor to your admission. More important is 1) how does you extracurriculars tie in to your overall story/ brand and 2) why you chose them, your leadership roles, what change have you affected, etc. Extracurriculars are about showing you are multi-dimensional (you have other qualities like leadership outside of just being a student) and that you are involved in your community. It best to have a mix of extracurriculars (sure some maybe oriented to your future interests) but also your passions because you will often find yourself enjoying your time more and growing as an individual rather than just doing something because you think that is what an admissions group wants to see. Hope this helps! Best of luck!
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Elyse’s Answer

Hi Riya, don't worry about their perception, and instead, focus on pursuing what your passionate about. The classes you take build a strong foundation for whatever major you want to pursue, while your extracurriculars help show that you're a balanced, well-rounded applicant.
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Ethan’s Answer

I would say your extracurriculars should show your many passions. This means you certainly do not have to focus on just one. Participation in various fields will not show indecisiveness, but at the same time you should focus on quality over quantity. In terms of college applications, having a set of extracurriculars should show a general interest in which program you're applying to. For the purpose of college majors, extracurriculars mean little to none (if you missed out in high school) and also have the potential to facilitate a leadership position at the collegiate level. Your high school extracurriculars should be used as a gateway to explore interests and tell a more complete once you're in college.
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Ryan’s Answer

Hello,

This is a great question and the answer is no! You do not have to only participate in extracurricular activities related to your major. Instead, a better thing to focus on with extracurricular activities is how involved you are. It's more impressive to have a leadership position or heavy involvement in an unrelated extracurricular activity than just being an active member of the activity.

If you are involved in one or two extracurricular activities that you care about, then that can benefit you more than aimlessly joining many extracurriculars that you do not enjoy but they are related to your career path.
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Kathy’s Answer

Hello Michelle.

Your extra-curricular activities do not have to be related to your major or anything else for that matter. As long as you are interested then that is all that matters. I remember when I was in high school, I joined cross country and absolutely loved it! If there is an activity that is related to your major then all the better but if not, I would join one because you want to.
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Victoria’s Answer

Hi Riya!

Your extracurriculars do not have to relate to what you want to major in in college. Getting involved in activities outside what you want to major in can be a great way to learn what you are interested in as well as what you may not be interested in. This can broaden your horizon and potentially open your eyes to something you may have never thought you'd enjoy. Goodluck!
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Jacky’s Answer

Hi Riya, I think extracurriculars in high school can be anything you want to do or try to do! I remember when I was in school I would feel a lot of pressure to get the best resume possible, but I think real world experience eventually trumps any degree/resume. I'm not saying it doesn't matter, but it shouldn't hold you back from doing the things you want to do!
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India’s Answer

Extracurriculars in high school do not have to be related to your major. College admissions counselors want to make sure that you are a well rounded student.
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Sophia’s Answer

Hi Riya,

This may be an unpopular take, but hear me out. Are you doing extracuriculars for yourself or to look good on paper?

Regardless, there will be no negative impact, if anything it shows you have hobbies that you are passionate enough to take a leadership role in.
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Ethan’s Answer

I think you’re already doing really well by actively participating in school and taking on leadership roles. Demonstrating involvement and leadership is more important than whether or not your extracurriculars relate to your major. While having an activity related to your study can be beneficial, the main objective is to show schools that you’re a well-rounded candidate. Just keep up the strong grades and continue to show your motivation, the specific focus of your extracurriculars isn’t a major concern!
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Vaidehi’s Answer

Hi Riya!
This is a great question and you're off to a wonderful start to your college applications journey.
I would say that often times we don't realize how interconnected our skillsets are even if they may seem unrelated at first. From your question, I understand that you wish to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. You might not be directly related to clubs in mech engineering, but your skillsets of leadership, being able to multi-task with school-work and extra-curriculars, team-work, etc. can also add significant value to you college app journey. Creative thinking and design thinking are important aspects to engineering - and I'm sure that with your leadership capabilities, you will be able to drive solutioning in these areas. My recommendation would be to identify the skills you've gained as a result of your clubs, and translate those to how they make you a better thinker and individual.
All the best!
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Daniel’s Answer

Hi Riya,

I think it is perfectly fine if your EC activities and leadership roles aren't directly related to Mechanical Engineering. I actually think that being involved in a variety of clubs and taking on a variety of leadership roles shows that you're challenging yourself outside of the typical math and science coursework that you'll see in your ME classes.

Most programs, Honors or otherwise, value students who demonstrate initiative, responsibility, and impact. Leadership roles definitely check off this box!

Try to highlight your various team's accomplishments and what you did to help get them there. Things like efficiently managing a budget or successfully integrating a new process for tracking deliverables, risks, and project health are great to point out in your college applications.

As you continue to think about your future career, I would challenge you to continue taking roles on extracurricular activities outside of mechanical engineering. Expanding your skillset beyond your major can open up unexpected opportunities, and you never know when something you learn in one area might become crucial down the line (these can be both hard skills (technical) or soft skills (communication, writing, etc.)

Best of luck in your future endeavors!

Daniel
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello !

I am happy to answer this question again as I responded to it yesterday.

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.

In any case, do not worry about your high school extracurriculars being in Mechanical Engineering. It doesn't matter what university you want to go to, you're high school curriculars are just fine.

I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
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