How to Perfect Your Common App Activities List: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Common Application Activities List is a crucial component of your college application. It provides admissions officers with a snapshot of your extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and personal interests. But with only 150 characters per activity description, crafting a compelling list can be challenging.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maximize the impact of your Activities List, helping you stand out in a highly competitive admissions process.
What Is the Common App Activities List?
The Common App Activities List allows students to showcase up to ten extracurricular activities, including leadership roles, work experience, volunteer service, and personal projects. Universities use this section to evaluate not just how busy you were but how effectively you engaged in meaningful pursuits.
What Can You Include?
Academic clubs (debate, robotics, Model UN, etc.)
Sports (varsity teams, club sports, recreational leagues)
Music and arts (band, theater, visual arts, dance)
Community service and volunteer work
Internships and research experiences
Part-time jobs and family responsibilities
Personal projects (blogging, coding, entrepreneurship, etc.)
The key is not just listing your activities but showcasing your impact and leadership within them.
Common Misconceptions About the Activities List
Many students make mistakes when filling out the Activities List. Here are three common misconceptions to avoid:
Misconception #1: More Activities = A Better Application
Quality trumps quantity. It’s better to list a few deeply meaningful activities than to pad your application with minor involvements.
Misconception #2: Only School Clubs and Leadership Titles Matter
Admissions officers value diverse experiences. Personal passion projects, part-time jobs, or caregiving responsibilities can be just as impactful as leading a club.
Misconception #3: The Activities List Is Just a Simple Checklist
Many applicants don’t realize how important strong descriptions are. Instead of simply stating the activity, focus on your role, impact, and achievements.
How to Format the Common App Activities List
The Common App provides a structured format:
Activity Type – Choose from a dropdown menu (e.g., sports, academic, volunteer work).
Position/Leadership Title – Be specific (e.g., "President, Robotics Club").
Organization Name – If applicable, include the official group or company.
Grades Participated – Indicate which years you were involved.
Time Commitment – Provide hours per week and weeks per year.
Activity Description (150 characters max) – This is the most crucial section!
Crafting High-Impact Activity Descriptions
With only 150 characters per entry, every word matters. Here’s how to maximize impact:
1. Use Action-Oriented, High-Impact Verbs
Start descriptions with powerful verbs like "spearheaded," "orchestrated," "developed," or "mentored." These words showcase leadership and initiative.
2. Focus on Achievements and Impact
Instead of stating what the activity is, highlight what you accomplished.
Before: "Wrote articles for the school newspaper."
✅ After: "Authored 12+ articles on school policy; launched investigative column that increased readership by 30%."
3. Quantify Results Where Possible
Numbers help provide credibility and context to your contributions.
Before: "Helped fundraise for local charity."
✅ After: "Organized fundraiser raising $10,000+ for children’s hospital, coordinating 50+ volunteers."
4. Show Progression and Growth
Highlight promotions or increased responsibility over time.
Before: "Member of Speech and Debate Club."
✅ After: "Competed in 10+ debate tournaments; placed 2nd regionally; mentored junior members."
5. Align Activities with Your Personal Narrative
Ensure your activities support your larger college application story.
For example, if you're applying as a computer science major, highlight coding projects, hackathons, and internships over unrelated activities.
High-Impact Verbs to Elevate Your Descriptions
Leadership & Initiative: Spearheaded, Launched, Founded, Directed, Organized
Research & Analysis: Investigated, Synthesized, Compiled, Assessed, Evaluated
Service & Community Engagement: Mentored, Advocated, Volunteered, Coordinated, Facilitated
Creativity & Innovation: Designed, Engineered, Developed, Initiated, Published
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I don’t have 10 activities?
That’s okay! Focus on depth rather than breadth. If you have only 5-6 activities but they showcase strong commitment and leadership, they will be more impactful than a long list of minor engagements.
Q: Should I include an activity even if I didn’t win awards?
Absolutely! Admissions officers value growth, initiative, and impact—not just accolades.
Q: Can I list family responsibilities as an activity?
Yes! Caring for siblings, assisting with a family business, or translating for non-English speaking parents demonstrates responsibility and leadership.
Final Thoughts: Your Activities List Can Make or Break Your Application
Many students overlook the power of the Common App Activities List, treating it as an afterthought. But when crafted effectively, it can elevate your application, providing a well-rounded view of your passions and achievements.
If you need expert guidance on perfecting your Common App and securing admission to top universities, MCC Global Education is here to help! Our experienced consultants offer personalized support in crafting winning college applications.
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