When it comes to college admissions, your grades and test scores are just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions officers want to see who you are beyond the classroom, and the Activities Section of the Common Application is where you get to showcase your passions, experiences, and leadership. But how do you make this section stand out? The key lies in internships, research, and extracurricular involvement—three critical elements that can set you apart in a competitive applicant pool.
Why the Activities Section Matters
The Activities Section allows students to list up to ten extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, internships, jobs, volunteer work, and independent projects. While many students fill this section with various school clubs, the most compelling applications highlight activities that demonstrate:
Depth over breadth – A long list of random activities won’t impress admissions officers. Instead, they want to see sustained commitment and growth in leadership over time.
Impact and Initiative – Did you take on a leadership role? Did your work make a tangible impact? Colleges love students who don’t just participate but take action to improve and innovate.
Authenticity – Your activities should reflect what genuinely excites you, not what you think colleges “want” to see. Passionate engagement always shines through.
Internship Experience and Research Opportunities
Internships provide real-world experience, help clarify career interests, and demonstrate initiative. Colleges value students who step outside the classroom to apply their skills in professional settings. Securing an internship—especially on your own—shows independence, maturity, and a clear sense of direction. Whether paid or unpaid, these experiences highlight your commitment to growth. In your application, describe what you did, what you learned, and how it shaped your academic and career aspirations. Even shadowing experiences can add depth to your profile.
For students interested in STEM, social sciences, or the humanities, research experience can be a game-changer. Top-tier universities value independent inquiry and critical thinking, and research showcases your ability to analyze data, solve problems, and think deeply about complex subjects. If you’ve participated in a high school research program, worked in a university lab, or pursued an independent project, highlight your contributions and the skills you developed. This demonstrates your ability to work both independently and collaboratively—essential traits for college success.
Extracurricular involvement should reflect genuine passion rather than just a long list of activities. Colleges look for leadership, commitment, and initiative. Taking on a leadership role, earning awards, or launching a new project carries more weight than simply being a member of multiple clubs. Consistency over several years, measurable achievements, and meaningful contributions make a stronger impact than scattered participation.
When filling out the Activities Section of the Common Application, make every word count. Use action-oriented language to describe your role and impact. Instead of simply stating that you volunteered, emphasize your contributions: “Led a team of 20 volunteers to distribute 1,500+ meals, securing $5K in donations.” This approach quantifies your achievements and demonstrates leadership, commitment, and personal growth.
Your internships, research, and extracurriculars do more than just fill a section on your application—they tell a story. Colleges are looking for students who take initiative, create meaningful impact, and bring something unique to their campus. Build an application that reflects your passion and potential. Contact Untapped Admissions today to develop a holistic and compelling personal story that sets you apart.
