Written by Cynthia, Platt College

Choosing the right Graphic Design Program or Veterinary Technology program is a critical step for many students as they plan their academic future. But what often goes unnoticed in this journey is the importance of extracurricular activities. It’s no secret that colleges and universities look beyond just grades and test scores when reviewing applications. Extracurriculars can make or break a college application, especially for specialized programs like Veterinary Technology or Graphic Design.

Why Extracurriculars Matter for College Admissions

In high school, students are encouraged to participate in activities outside of their regular coursework. Why? Because these activities help develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Take for example, a student interested in Graphic Design Programs. Participating in art clubs, photography clubs, or volunteering to design school posters gives them hands-on experience. These activities not only strengthen their design skills but also show a genuine passion for the field.

On the Veterinary Technology side, joining animal care clubs or volunteering at animal shelters shows a deep commitment to working with animals—something that’s crucial when applying to these programs.

How High School Students Can Leverage Extracurriculars

Whether you’re looking to pursue Graphic Design Programs or Veterinary Technology, extracurriculars are key. But how do you choose the right activities? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your high school years.

1. Find Activities That Align with Your Interests

For students aiming for a Graphic Design Program, activities like art clubs, digital media courses, or even personal creative projects can be valuable. Similarly, students interested in Veterinary Technology should seek out animal-related activities such as volunteering at shelters, participating in biology clubs, or even shadowing a vet.

For example, a friend of mine who applied to both graphic design and veterinary technology programs spent her summers volunteering at an animal shelter while working on digital illustrations of the animals for the shelter's website. This not only helped her gain real-world experience but also created an impressive portfolio that showcased her diverse skills.

2. Take on Leadership Roles

Colleges love to see students who take initiative. Taking a leadership role in your extracurriculars can set you apart. Let’s say you’ve joined the school’s art club. Why not take the lead on organizing an art exhibition or a digital media project? If you’re more interested in Veterinary Technology, consider running a club or event focused on animal care or biology.

Leadership roles demonstrate responsibility and an ability to manage projects, which are qualities both Graphic Design Programs and Veterinary Technology programs highly value.

3. Build a Portfolio of Your Work

When applying to a Graphic Design Program, it’s essential to have a portfolio that showcases your skills. The great thing about participating in extracurriculars is that you can build this portfolio through real projects. Whether it’s designing posters for a school event, creating digital content for a community project, or even running your own design blog, each piece adds value.

For Veterinary Technology, while you may not need a traditional portfolio, logging your volunteer hours, experiences with animals, or any certifications (like pet first aid) can demonstrate your commitment to the field.

4. Engage in Cross-Disciplinary Activities

Extracurriculars don’t have to be strictly within your field of interest. Cross-disciplinary activities can give you a well-rounded skill set. For instance, students in Graphic Design Programs often benefit from joining writing clubs or public speaking groups, as these help improve communication skills—a must when working with clients or presenting design concepts.

Likewise, Veterinary Technology students might consider joining environmental or sustainability clubs. Why? Because understanding broader environmental issues can be incredibly beneficial when working with animal populations and ecosystems.

Real-Life Example: How Extracurriculars Shaped My Path

I remember during my own high school years, I had a passion for both animals and art. I wasn’t sure which direction I wanted to go, but I decided to get involved in a range of activities. I joined the biology club, volunteered at a local vet’s office, and also led a group project for a school-wide art exhibition.

Through these experiences, I realized how interconnected my interests were. For example, working on illustrations for the vet’s office allowed me to combine my love of animals and design, which helped me in deciding to apply for Graphic Design Programs.

Looking back, those extracurriculars not only strengthened my college application but also gave me confidence in my decision-making.

How This Applies to Other Programs

While these steps can be particularly helpful for students interested in Graphic Design Programs or Veterinary Technology, they can also apply to a wide range of related fields such as Biology, Environmental Science, and even Bioengineering.

For instance, a student interested in Environmental Science might join an eco-club or participate in local clean-up efforts. These activities show a dedication to the environment and provide practical experience that’s often looked for in college applications.

Similarly, a future Bioengineering student could join robotics clubs, coding clubs, or even enter science competitions. The skills developed in these extracurriculars are directly applicable to the technical and problem-solving aspects of Bioengineering.

Tailoring Your Extracurriculars to Your Dream College Program

It’s important to remember that not all extracurriculars are created equal. The key is to be strategic about your choices. If you’re aiming for a Graphic Design Program, focus on creative activities that allow you to develop and showcase your design skills.

On the other hand, if you’re pursuing Veterinary Technology, immerse yourself in animal care, biology, or even environmental clubs that align with your passion for helping animals.

Colleges and universities want to see a well-rounded student who can balance academics with outside interests. By curating your extracurricular activities thoughtfully, you’ll be able to demonstrate not only your passion for the field but also your ability to manage time and responsibilities.

Conclusion

Extracurricular activities are more than just a way to pass the time—they’re a critical component of a strong college application, especially for specialized fields like Graphic Design Programs and Veterinary Technology.

By choosing the right activities, taking on leadership roles, building a portfolio, and engaging in cross-disciplinary opportunities, you can make a compelling case for why you’re the perfect candidate for your dream program.

And remember, it’s not just about filling up your calendar with random activities. Be thoughtful about the extracurriculars you choose, and make sure they align with your future goals.

Take advantage of the opportunities available, and use your high school years to prepare yourself for a successful academic and professional career in your chosen field.