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How to implement ECs that aren't related to my major in a college application?
I am applying to college soon, but my major is not anywhere near what my ECs are. I've started selling clothes, made a social media platform where I gained 20k followers writing stories. But I want to major in Engineering, or a specialty in it. They are not related in any aspect, but other than that, I do volunteer services at school clubs. Should I implement these ECs? I'm afraid I might sound too random.
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3 answers
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Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Abby !
It's good that you've asked this question and I am happy to give you some advice about it.
Yes, definitely include all of your EC's on a resume and an application. Since you specifically mention that you sell clothing, include that as self-employment. There are things happening with technology related to fashion that you might discover in your engineering studies and you may very well see that fashion and engineering may have ties. Since you've also created a media platform, that also shows that you have certain skills that will be useful with almost any major or career. Include all of it. It will show your skill and creativity.
Mostly everyone is involved in some sort of skill building sideline outside of their career, so it will not seem unusual. Whether it's doing research outside of your chosen field, acting in community theater, writing movie reviews for a website, it all shows that you have the abilty to be versatile and able to focus on a variety of things. Also, that you are productive and disciplined.
You will also want to include any unpaid activity you have done or are doing as volunteer work. Even if it is child care or housekeeping/cleaning for someone. That counts, too. When people see a strong amount of EC's, they get the feeling that the prospective student has a certain level of maturity and motivation and those are two ingredients that make for a successful academic experience.
Including all of your EC's will show the school that you are active and you can put your mind to your interests. Some people may not have anything to put down on the application and by you doing so, you will stand out as unique and special. It will all be in your favor. A good thing about the media platform is that you have something tangible to show a prospective evaluator. Include the web URL in your application when you write about it so they may actually see your work. The skills you have with web creation can be applied to just about any line of work.
Best wishes to you as you move along towards a wonderful academic time of your life !
It's good that you've asked this question and I am happy to give you some advice about it.
Yes, definitely include all of your EC's on a resume and an application. Since you specifically mention that you sell clothing, include that as self-employment. There are things happening with technology related to fashion that you might discover in your engineering studies and you may very well see that fashion and engineering may have ties. Since you've also created a media platform, that also shows that you have certain skills that will be useful with almost any major or career. Include all of it. It will show your skill and creativity.
Mostly everyone is involved in some sort of skill building sideline outside of their career, so it will not seem unusual. Whether it's doing research outside of your chosen field, acting in community theater, writing movie reviews for a website, it all shows that you have the abilty to be versatile and able to focus on a variety of things. Also, that you are productive and disciplined.
You will also want to include any unpaid activity you have done or are doing as volunteer work. Even if it is child care or housekeeping/cleaning for someone. That counts, too. When people see a strong amount of EC's, they get the feeling that the prospective student has a certain level of maturity and motivation and those are two ingredients that make for a successful academic experience.
Including all of your EC's will show the school that you are active and you can put your mind to your interests. Some people may not have anything to put down on the application and by you doing so, you will stand out as unique and special. It will all be in your favor. A good thing about the media platform is that you have something tangible to show a prospective evaluator. Include the web URL in your application when you write about it so they may actually see your work. The skills you have with web creation can be applied to just about any line of work.
Best wishes to you as you move along towards a wonderful academic time of your life !
Updated
Sami’s Answer
Hi Abby,
You should definitely include these extra curriculars in your application. I do not completely agree with the fact that these ECs are not related to your intended major. Part of creating a successful application is creating a well rounded story. If you can show how the skills you gained from your clothing business or social media platform have given you the creativity, problem solving and communication abilities necessary to be a successful engineering major, you should be fine. I applied to college hoping to be a math major with a lot of art related ECs. They key is to find a link between the two and portray that connection through words.
Good luck with your applications!
You should definitely include these extra curriculars in your application. I do not completely agree with the fact that these ECs are not related to your intended major. Part of creating a successful application is creating a well rounded story. If you can show how the skills you gained from your clothing business or social media platform have given you the creativity, problem solving and communication abilities necessary to be a successful engineering major, you should be fine. I applied to college hoping to be a math major with a lot of art related ECs. They key is to find a link between the two and portray that connection through words.
Good luck with your applications!
Updated
Sanjeev’s Answer
Sure thing! You got this! Choosing a major can be overwhelming, but it's also an exciting journey of self-discovery. Start by exploring your interests and what makes you curious. Research different majors and their career paths. Talk to professionals in fields you like. Take advantage of college opportunities to explore through internships and workshops. Remember, it's okay to be uncertain – college is about growth. Trust yourself and enjoy the process! You'll find the right path for you! 😊
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Here's the line I am referring to. "For safety reasons, this includes directly inviting people to contact you, follow you, or connect with you outside of CareerVillage.org. (*If Professional shares their Twitter or LinkedIn on their About Me section of their CV profile, that is OK)." Thank you for your understanding!
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