Im a year 12 student currently at high school in New Zealand. I play football (soccer) and futsal, however only for the 2XI teams, meaning that I would not be good enough to get recruited for college soccer. However, soccer is one of my greatest passions and does take up some of my time, despite the fact that I don’t really have anything to show for it. Is it still worth putting on my college application as an extracirricular?
Hi there! It’s a common misconception that only top level achievement in extracurriculars should be included in an application. Even if you’re not at a recruitment level in sports, your involvement is still a valuable addition. Here’s why:
- Passion and Commitment: Colleges really do appreciate students who pursue their passions, and your dedication to these sports, even if not at an elite level, demonstrates your commitment. It shows that you’re capable of sticking with something you care about, which is a trait universities value.
- Time Management: The ability to balance sports and academic responsibilities displays time management skills, which is an asset in a college setting. By participating in sports, you’re demonstrating that you can manage your time effectively, a critical skill for succeeding in college and beyond.
- Teamwork and Leadership: Sports inherently require teamwork. Even if you’re not the team captain, you’re still gaining experience working within a team dynamic, which is a valuable soft skill that universities and future employers appreciate.
- Personal Growth and Resilience: involvement in sports also illustrates personal growth and resilience. It’s not just about winning; it’s about dealing with losses, improving skills, and striving to do better. These qualities are highly valued by colleges, as they indicate a mature and growth-oriented mindset.
Remember, universities are looking to create a diverse and dynamic student body. Not every student needs to be a star athlete or valedictorian. It’s your unique combination of skills, experiences, and interests that make you stand out. So, certainly include your sports involvement as part of your extracurricular activities on your application. This will help paint a fuller picture of who you are, beyond just your academic achievements.