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What type of an extracurricular could I do if I am interested in studying something in the field of science?

Which ones look best? How can I show leadership, initiative and values through them? Or what qualities are they looking to be transmitted through them? How important is starting a passion proyect, is it more valued than just being in a leadership role?

science college-advice management career-advice personal-development leadership extracurriculars collegeprep summer-jobs organization university-applications community-service extracurricularactivities passionproject community-engagement science-club stem-activities
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Greg’s Answer

Hi Sofia,

It's great that you're interested in studying science! This field offers many global opportunities. To get started, look for science-related activities at your school and in your community. You can join or start a science club, enter local or regional science fairs, or volunteer with health, environment, or education organizations. Check if local government agencies need volunteers and visit their websites or offices to find out more.

If there aren't many formal programs, think about creating your own science project. You could organize workshops for younger students, start a science blog, or tackle a local issue using science. These activities show initiative and creativity. Colleges and scholarships value commitment and impact, so focus on activities where you can grow and make a difference.

Show leadership by leading group projects, mentoring peers, or working with teachers to bring new opportunities to your school. What matters most is your curiosity, willingness to help, and making the best of available opportunities. Whether through a personal project or leadership role, your impact and growth will be noticed. Don't be afraid to try new things, even if you fail at first. This shows you're not afraid to set goals and pursue them. Good luck!
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Eddy’s Answer

Hello Sofia! If you’re interested in studying science, extracurriculars that align with curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration are ideal. Participating in science fairs, or contributing to research projects (even small ones at local universities or online platforms) are all great options. Internships, volunteering at science museums, or tutoring STEM subjects can also be impressive.

The ones that look best are those where you show clear initiative and sustained commitment—like founding a STEM outreach group, organizing community science workshops, or launching a blog or podcast that breaks down scientific topics. These activities demonstrate leadership, creativity, and the ability to take ownership of an idea and bring it to life. Admissions teams and employers value depth and impact more than just a title, so a well-executed passion project that solves a real-world problem or educates others can often speak louder than simply holding a leadership position in an existing club. Ultimately, they’re looking for qualities like perseverance, innovation, responsibility, and a genuine passion for science.
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Kalyani’s Answer

Hi Sofia, It's great to see you thinking ahead about the extracurricular projects in the area of Science. Here is some guidance based on our (me and my colleage Keeyan Nejad) personal experiences:

1. Join Communities and Societies: Don't learn in isolation. Joining groups helps you share ideas, learn from your peers, and build a valuable network. Loo out for academic clubs at your school (like Maths, Technology, or a Book Club) or find online communities related to your passions. This will help you gain new perspectives and build relationships that can last a lifetime.

2. Find a Mentor: A mentor who can offer advice based on real-world experience and help you see your own "blind spots." This could be your favorite teacher, you school alumnus in a field you admire, or a trusted family member. A mentor provides personal guidance and can help you navigate challenges in your academic and career journey. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for a brief chat to express your interests.

3. Get Hands-On Experience: Applying your knowledge turns theory into real skill and confirms your passion for a subject. If you're studying pharmaceuticals, get a science kit or join a lab group. For computer science, try building a simple application. For literature, start a blog. Practical projects make learning more engaging and provide concrete experience for future university or intern applications.

Wish you good luck!
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

If you love science and want to become a leader, think about joining a school science club or getting involved in programs like Clubes de Ciencia. You could also volunteer with groups like Fundación Naturaleza El Salvador, the Red Cross, Communities In Schools, Techo, Save the Children, or local United Nations agencies like UNDP and UNICEF. You can even help with global projects online through the UN Volunteers platform. Joining student government, debate club, or community service clubs, or playing sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis, can help you learn teamwork and discipline. Creative activities like art club, band, musical theater, or writing poetry can boost your confidence and help you express yourself. Taking part in science fairs, math contests, internships, language clubs, or tutoring can also help you grow and learn new skills. Choose activities that excite you, spend time on them, and use them to grow, make a difference, and inspire others.
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Mani’s Answer

Hello Sofia! Great question. I am a scientist. Perhaps you can find something that checks off a few of these boxes? It's possible to show leadership skills in any role. You don't have to have the official title. If you are a project assistant you can show leadership by guiding others or thinking of innovative ideas to solve a problem for the organization. The type of project you choose and why you chose it may reflect your values. Building your own mini project, even within an established organization, can show initiative. And then the notes I sent above can show leadership. So in my opinion, it's less about what you do and more about how you make the most of it and how you communicate your impact. If I were you, I choose something I enjoy most importantly because the work isn't always easy and you need that motivation to give you the courage to show leadership in whichever project you choose.
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Malik’s Answer

I would attend science conference, participate in labs, and reading white papers on specific topics you find interesting in the area of science. There are a lot of creators who write blogs and make videos on various science topics. Veritasium is one of my favorite in the video creating space. Maybe you could even start writing or creating your own interests within the field of science to scratch the itch of learning and putting your thoughts out there.
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Aparna’s Answer

Hi Sofia, it's wonderful that you're already thinking about extracurriculars to boost your career. Science is a big field, so it's important to focus on what interests you the most. Start by checking out programs and clubs at your school and in your community. It's a great first step because you're there often and can easily connect with others. Many of these groups offer volunteering, which looks great on your resume. Aim for leadership roles or even start your own club.

Also, try to build connections with professionals in the science field. If internships are hard to find, consider shadowing opportunities. This hands-on experience is really valuable. Some local colleges let young students work with professors on research, which can help you get noticed.

Lastly, explore your passions independently. Don't wait for others to guide you. Start your own projects and organizations. You got this!
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