There is probably nothing better than for a college admissions person taking notice of your talent or hobby and saying to the admissions committee something such as, “Yeah, here is that prize winning pastry chef from Texas, or the circus performer from San Francisco, or the kid from Maine who is a waterfall nut.”

ACTIVITIES IF YOU WANT TO GO TO ONE OF THE IVIES
The competition to get into one of the Ivy League and other competitive schools these days is absolutely fierce. Not only are admits expected to be academic powerhouses, but their activities must also be better than best.

In general, the most selective colleges are looking for students who have achieved state or national recognition in at least some of what they do. Often it is not enough to be a Captain of a high school sport, or Student Body President, or even a National Merit Scholar. Students who get accepted to selective schools are extraordinary in one or more ways: they are nationally ranked sportspersons; National Chess champions; published authors, playwrights, poets or prize-winning artists. They are also accomplished musicians or actors, prize-winning scientists or inventors, and founders of new community service organizations.

The most selective colleges want students who are “movers and shakers:” that is, seekers of challenges, risk takers, extraordinary talents, high impact students, exceptional persons or “one of the best (activity or talent) the school has ever had.” In other words, they are people who have worked hard to stand out in the most competitive academic/extracurricular crowd.

FAQ #2: Which activities will impress colleges the most?

ANSWER: Many students (and even more parents) ask what kinds of activities will impress college admissions officers. The answer to this question varies from college to college, and even from year to year. What makes a big splash this year—a top oboe player—may be at the bottom of the list next year.

The best advice about choosing extracurricular activities is what has been said before: participate in what interests you, what you enjoy, and what you love. What really counts for getting into colleges is how you express the meaning of your activity choices on applications, including what you have learned or gained as a result.