College Admissions Expert Ranks Extracurricular Activities for Success

The college admissions landscape is evolving, prompting students to strategically choose their extracurricular activities. Kate Stone, founder of Kate Stone Prep, has shared insights on how to maximize the impact of these activities on college applications. Her analysis emphasizes that not all extracurriculars hold equal weight, particularly when applying to elite universities.

Stone explains that popular activities can diminish a student’s unique appeal. “Anything that thousands of kids are doing is always going to be less helpful for you,” she states in an interview with TODAY.com. While she does not recommend avoiding widely participated activities altogether, her advice encourages students to approach them creatively. “Do the common activity in an uncommon way,” she suggests.

In a viral Instagram reel that has garnered nearly 3 million views, Stone offers a ranking of various extracurricular activities based on their perceived value to college admissions. Below is a selection of her rankings, scored from 1 to 10:

– Newspaper editor: 7/10
– Robotics: 3/10
– Student council: 5/10
– Winning academic competitions: 8/10
– Playing viola: 9/10
– Playing violin: 3/10
– Taking an independent online course or college course: 8/10
– Planning your prom: 7/10
– Solving a real-world problem in your community: 10/10
– Model U.N. and debate: 5/10
– Eagle Scout: 6/10
– Founder of a club: 3/10
– Founding a club with measurable impact: 9/10
– Varsity captain: 5/10
– Tutoring: 4/10
– Internships: 7/10
– DECA: 5/10

Stone emphasizes the importance of differentiation in the college application process. For instance, she ranks playing the viola higher than the violin, suggesting that a less common choice can enhance a student’s profile. “It doesn’t mean that you’re going to get into a top school because you’re playing the viola,” she clarifies, “but it’s going to potentially help you.”

Beyond standing out, Stone encourages students to pursue their passions genuinely. She warns against merely checking boxes on applications, urging students to engage deeply with their interests. “Are we trying to just check a box or put a resume line on your activities list?” she asks. “You’re going to be exposed for that.” Colleges often recognize students who can articulate the significance of their activities in relation to their future aspirations.

Making a lasting impact is another key theme in Stone’s advice. She highlights the highest-ranked extracurriculars, such as community service projects that demonstrate tangible benefits. She cites examples of students who have initiated bike safety programs or recycling initiatives, leaving behind a legacy that endures after their departure to college.

In her final tip, Stone emphasizes the value of mentorship. “The new extracurricular is having a mentor,” she says. Finding a mentor who aligns with a student’s aspirations can provide invaluable guidance. Stone recounts a case where a student aspiring to be a plastic surgeon received unexpected advice from a mentor in the field: rather than focusing solely on anatomy, he should study art and aesthetics.

Ultimately, Stone concludes that the significance of extracurricular activities lies not in their popularity but in how students engage with them. “It’s not about the extracurricular. It’s what you do with the extracurricular,” she asserts.

With the college admissions process becoming increasingly competitive, her insights serve as a valuable guide for students and parents navigating this challenging landscape.