Step 2) Activities and positions

Importance of Extracurricular Activities

Your university application offers a chance to make a strong first impression on the admissions tutor. However, there is plenty of competition, so you need to make your application stand out. For UCAS personal statements, you will have the opportunity to include references to extra-curricular activities. Your tutor, who writes your reference, will also make reference to them.

For US college applications, one of the sections you’ll need to complete on your application is extracurricular activities. These activities provide colleges with more insight into who you are as a person and what your interests and goals are and how well you fit in with the college.

Why are extracurricular activities important for getting into university?

These activities might seem like hobbies and clubs to you, but they offer a lot more when it comes to helping your personal statement stand out. Extracurricular activities show universities a wide range of your character that form a positive impression, such as being willing to learn new skills, work with others or individually and reslience.

These activities might also show universities that you are involved in your field or area of interest beyond taking classes, such as being part of a science society or taking part in essay competitions outside of school. Your extracurricular activities on your university application should also provide colleges with information on your interests outside of your field, which helps show that you’re a well-rounded student.

Now, think about the skills and qualities that you have developed and demonstrated through your participation in activities and the positions that you have held.