Seeking Extracurricular Opportunities
Hello! I’m currently a Grade 11 student and I find myself in need of extracurricular activities. In the past, I was part of my school’s gaming club and baking club, but unfortunately, they no longer meet. Beyond that, my engagement in school activities has been quite limited. I have, however, been taking piano lessons for six years and have completed around 80 hours of volunteering.
I’m aiming to get into a competitive biology undergraduate program, and while my grades are solid (low 90s), I’m anxious about my lack of extracurricular experiences. I plan to volunteer at a hospital this summer and am looking for a more long-term volunteer opportunity afterward.
Are there specific activities or initiatives that could enhance my university application? My friend and I have discussed starting a crochet club, but I’m unsure if it would be worthwhile since it doesn’t align directly with my intended field of study. Should I go ahead with this idea, or would it be better to focus my efforts elsewhere? Any advice would be appreciated! Thank you.
It’s great that you’re taking the initiative to strengthen your application! Here are a few suggestions that can help you enhance your extracurricular profile while still aligning with your interest in a competitive biology program:
Volunteering: Your plan to volunteer at a hospital is an excellent move, especially since it relates directly to health and science. Look for opportunities that allow you to interact with patients or shadow healthcare professionals to gain insights into the field.
Clubs and Organizations: Starting a crochet club can actually be beneficial in ways beyond direct biology relevance. It demonstrates leadership, creativity, and the ability to start and manage a project. If you’re passionate about it and can get group participation, it can showcase your commitment and ability to build community, which universities value.
Science-Related Extracurriculars: Look for science clubs at your school or in your community, such as a biology or environmental club. If they don’t exist, consider starting one! This could help you connect with like-minded individuals and explore biological topics further.
Competitions and Research: Participating in science fairs or seeking out summer research programs related to biology can provide hands-on experience and showcase your dedication to the subject.
Online Learning and Projects: Consider taking online courses related to biology or participating in projects that allow you to explore the field independently. This can also demonstrate your enthusiasm and initiative.
Show Your Passion: If you have interests in specific biological areas (like conservation, medicine, or biotechnology), find ways to engage with those interests through community service, internships, or workshops.
Remember, it’s not just about quantity; quality and passion matter too. Focus on what truly interests you and how you can make a meaningful contribution. Your diverse interests, including crochet and piano, can also show that you’re a well-rounded individual, which is appealing to universities. Good luck!