Yes, Your Very Specific, Quirky, Unique Passions Can be Added to Your Activities List!

Written by Amanda, University of Pennsylvania

The college application process can be daunting, especially when it comes to filling out the activities list. For some students, the idea of listing ten (or even twenty for UC schools) activities can seem overwhelming, especially if they don’t have a traditional resume filled with club leadership roles or varsity sports. But here’s a secret: your specific passions, the ones that truly define who you are, can be your greatest assets!

The Benefits of Adding Your Specific Passions

Including your unique, deeply held passions on your activities list can set you apart from other applicants. Here are the key benefits of doing so:

Authenticity and Personal Connection: Admissions officers appreciate authenticity. When you add an activity that you’re genuinely passionate about, whether it’s mountain biking, running a successful YouTube channel, or any other personal project, you’re giving them a glimpse into who you are at your core. This personal connection can make your application more memorable and impactful.

Showcasing Initiative and Drive: Pursuing a passion independently, outside of school or formal organizations, demonstrates initiative, self-discipline, and drive. For example, if you’ve been a Twitch gaming streamer since you were 13 and have stayed consistent while building a strong fanbase, it shows long-term commitment and passion in a less conventional but equally valuable way.

Filling the Gaps with Meaningful Content: If you’re struggling to fill all ten (or twenty) slots on your activities list, your specific passions can provide meaningful content that reflects your interests and skills. Instead of listing activities you’re not fully invested in, use this space to highlight what you love most. This not only fills the gaps but also strengthens your overall application.

The Limitations of Adding Just Any Activity

While it might be tempting to fill your activities list with everything you’ve ever done, it’s important to be selective. Here are some limitations to consider:

Quality Over Quantity: Admissions officers can tell when an activity has been added just to fill a space. If you’re not 100% proud of an activity, or if it doesn’t genuinely reflect your interests or achievements, it’s better to leave it off. Quality and depth of involvement are far more important than quantity.

Relevance to Your Narrative: Every part of your application should work together to tell a clear and cohesive story about who you are. Adding an activity that doesn’t fit with your overall

narrative can weaken the impact of your application. Make sure each activity aligns with the message you want to convey.

Readiness to Discuss: Be prepared to talk about anything you include on your activities list in an interview or supplemental essay. If you’re not enthusiastic or knowledgeable about an activity, it could backfire. Only include activities that you’re ready and excited to discuss with admissions officers, especially if you are given the chance to interview with them.

Crafting a Compelling Activities List

As you finalize your activities list, remember that it’s not just about filling spaces: it’s about showcasing who you are, what you value, and what you’ve achieved. By including your specific and deeply held passions, you’re giving admissions officers a glimpse into your unique world. So go ahead, add that mountain biking journey, that YouTube channel you’ve poured your heart into, that Etsy bracelet shop you’ve successfully operated, or any other passion project you’ve developed over the years. Just make sure that whatever you include is something you’re proud of and ready to share.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the activities list is your opportunity to shine. Make it count by staying true to yourself and highlighting what makes you unique. Admissions officers are not just looking for well-rounded students, they’re looking for students with passion, drive, and authenticity. And that’s exactly what your passions can bring to the table!