2 answers
Taylor
Student
Silver City, New Mexico
2
Questions
Asked
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what are some things that look great on college applications?
I want to gain some knowledge of some things that would look great on my college applications for the 2026-2027 school year. I will be entering as a freshman.
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2 answers
Shannon Zulauf
Risk & Independence
67
Answers
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
This is a great question—and you’re smart to be thinking about this early. Colleges aren’t just looking for a long list of activities; they’re looking for who you are, how you think, and how you show up over time.
A few helpful ways to think about this:
- Leadership is about contribution and influence, not position names. Focus on impact over titles.
- Your ability to reflect and learn from your experiences matters. Self-awareness is powerful.
- Meaningful service over time stands out more than one-off volunteering.
You don’t need to “build a resume” for college. Instead, focus on:
- Doing things you genuinely care about
- Showing up consistently
- Taking on responsibility when opportunities arise
If you do that, your application will naturally reflect who you really are—and that’s exactly what colleges want.
A few helpful ways to think about this:
- Leadership is about contribution and influence, not position names. Focus on impact over titles.
- Your ability to reflect and learn from your experiences matters. Self-awareness is powerful.
- Meaningful service over time stands out more than one-off volunteering.
You don’t need to “build a resume” for college. Instead, focus on:
- Doing things you genuinely care about
- Showing up consistently
- Taking on responsibility when opportunities arise
If you do that, your application will naturally reflect who you really are—and that’s exactly what colleges want.
Keri Maguire, SPHR
HR Leader
1
Answer
Abington, Massachusetts
Updated
Keri’s Answer
Hi Taylor, great question! You're already on the right track by thinking about how to stand out on college applications.
While good grades and leadership roles are important, having a part-time job can really make you unique. Going through interviews, getting a job, and balancing work with school shows responsibility, maturity, and the ability to handle multiple tasks. These are qualities colleges love but don't always see.
A part-time job gives you real-world experience and shows initiative, helping you stand out in a meaningful way.
Good luck!
While good grades and leadership roles are important, having a part-time job can really make you unique. Going through interviews, getting a job, and balancing work with school shows responsibility, maturity, and the ability to handle multiple tasks. These are qualities colleges love but don't always see.
A part-time job gives you real-world experience and shows initiative, helping you stand out in a meaningful way.
Good luck!