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What will help me get into collage?

What after school activities will help me get into college? Like sports or clubs what specific helps

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Jane’s Answer

Hi, Aurora! Getting into college isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about showing who you are, what you care about, and how you’ve grown. Doing well in your classes, especially those that challenge you or connect to your future goals, can really strengthen your application. Strong grades show colleges that you’re prepared for academic success.

When it comes to after-school activities, there isn’t one “right” choice. What matters most is consistent involvement in things that genuinely interest you—whether that’s sports, clubs, the arts, volunteering, or part-time work. Depth often matters more than quantity. Colleges notice when you stick with something, take initiative, or grow into leadership roles. Activities aligned with your personal or professional goals can also provide meaningful experiences to highlight in your applications.

For example, Jane Doe was interested in becoming a physical therapist, so she focused on science classes like biology and anatomy. She played soccer for three years, volunteered at a local rehab center, and worked part-time at a community gym. These experiences helped her realize how much she enjoyed helping people recover and stay active. When it came time to apply, she emphasized how each activity supported her goal of entering the health field—and she was accepted into her top-choice university with a strong kinesiology program. Her success came not from doing everything, but from doing a few meaningful things with purpose.

Remember, colleges and programs vary in what they value. Some emphasize leadership or community service, while others prioritize academic strength, creative talent, or specific skills. Connecting with your school counselor, college alumni, or admissions offices can help you understand what different schools look for and how to tailor your efforts.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this process. Senior year can be exciting but also overwhelming. Try to maintain balance by getting enough rest, eating well, staying active, and taking breaks when needed. If you’re feeling stressed, talking to someone you trust can make a big difference.

Colleges want students who are capable, curious, dedicated, and grounded. Focus on what motivates and excites you, and let that shine in your work and applications. Trust your efforts, stay focused on what matters most to you, and don’t hesitate to ask for support along the way. Best of luck!
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Paul’s Answer

Just about all activities, that you are involved in during your high school days, will assist in getting you into a college. Especially ones that are also active on a college scholarship. or can be linked to a scholarship. or some form of financial assistance.

This can include sports and team activities, debate, student government, volunteer work for local non-profits, volunteering at legal organizations, local courts or judicial organizations, YMCA, Boys and Girl Clubs, or any other service oriented activities that are in your local community. It shows the colleges that you are interested in civics and in making your local community a better place for everyone.
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Dave’s Answer

Hi,

To boost your chances of getting into college as an athlete, make sure your grades meet the school's standards. Academics are crucial. Think about where you want to go and what career you want. Talk to your school's guidance counselor to create a plan that suits you best. Stay focused and keep learning.

Dave
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Firstly, you may need to find out what career/ subjects you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Identify the career you have interest and then determine the relevant subject
2. Attend the information session hosts by the college. Speak to the professors and alumni if you can. Acquire more information on the selection criteria
3. Choose the subjects in high school that is required and work hard on the academic to meet selection criteria
4. Participate the extracurricular activities relevant to the subject
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you comment icon Hi Rebecca, it sounds like the student is most interested in step 4. Do you have any suggestions on how to find clubs/extracurricular activities to participate in? Gurpreet Lally, Admin
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Afrad’s Answer

Hi Sonali -

To get into college, focus on being a well-rounded individual who shows passion and commitment.

Academics are key:
- Aim for high grades in challenging courses (AP, IB).
- Strong SAT/ACT scores can help, even if test-optional.
- Get strong recommendations from teachers and counselors.
- Write compelling essays that tell your unique story.

After-School Activities: Quality Over Quantity
Colleges value sustained involvement in a few activities over many superficial ones. They look for:
- Depth of Commitment: Long-term participation shows dedication.
- Leadership: Taking on roles like team captain or club president.
- Initiative & Impact: Starting projects or making a measurable difference.
- Authentic Passion: Choose activities you genuinely care about.
- Skill Development: How activities built skills like teamwork, problem-solving, or communication.

Impactful Activities often include:
- Leadership Roles (student government, club officer)
- Community Service (sustained volunteering)
- Starting Projects (entrepreneurship, community initiatives)
- Academic Teams (debate, robotics)
- Arts & Sports (music, theater, athletics)
- Research or Internships (real-world experience)

Also, your high school counselor is a great resource for guidance. Hope this helps!
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Maia’s Answer

Hi Aurora, great question!

First, make sure you're putting focus on your academics. This includes high grades/GPA, rigorous courses, SAT/ACT scores. Try to build positive relationships with your teachers and with your high school counselor to ensure positive letters of recommendation.

In terms of activities specifically, I encourage you to take a look inside yourself, first. What do you enjoy doing? What would you like to grow in? What is of interest to you? From there, once you've narrowed in on some things you enjoy, think about what activities they may translate to. For example, if you enjoy science, you may look into research, robotics clubs, Quiz Bowl, science fairs, volunteering to teach entry bio at camps, etc.

From there, think about gaining depth within those activities. Is there a leadership role available? Go for it!

What I've heard and seen is that many admissions officers hope to see a story within your application. They hope to understand YOU. Who you are, what you enjoy, what you will bring to their campus. Staying true to yourself is key throughout this process.

Good luck!
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Sean’s Answer

Academics should always be primary, ensure your grades are solid. After that, generically speaking you will want to show positive engagements outside of school. These should show ability to work well with others, learning and growing via your volunteer work, and giving back to the community or working to advance a worthwhile cause, discipline, or activity. Specifically speaking, if you have particular academic, professional, and/or athletic goals in mind, try to show alignment in your volunteer activities with those goals. Sports wise you could volunteer with the organizing committees of that sport, if you're interested in an industry or professional field, likewise look for ways to volunteer in support organizations or causes that are closely associated with the industry or field. As always, search engines are a great way to start. You can also ask around at school in the career development office or with academic advisors. Friends and family might also know of opportunities at volunteer organizations. As a hiring manager I can say that when filling an entry level job and reviewing candidates with no practical work experience, I like to see that students were engaged in being active outside of requirements like going to class. That can include sports which is always a plus, but I also like to see activities like Junior Achievement, debate club, etc. and community engagement like park clean ups, food banks, religious organizations, etc. Wishing you all the best in your academic and professional future.
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Estelle’s Answer

Being well-rounded can really make a difference. It's not just about doing well in school, but also getting involved in things like volunteering for causes you care about. Joining sports and cultural activities is also beneficial. You don't need to be the star player; just being part of the team matters.

Estelle recommends the following next steps:

Volunteer at a charitable organization
Support a candidate for election by volunteering to work on their campaign
Voluntee/intern somewhere that furthers your interest in a particular field (e.g. at a hospital if you are interested in medical sciences, local business, etc.)
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