Be Unforgettable: Show Your Unique Side!

📹 Video Information:

Title: Be Unforgettable: Show Your Unique Side!
Channel: College Admissions Counselors - egelloC
Duration: 00:37
Views: 67

Overview

This video offers advice on how to strategically approach extracurricular activities as part of a major application process. The presenter introduces a framework for categorizing activities into two main "buckets"—those directly related to the intended major, and those that reflect the applicant's personal interests and individuality.

Main Topics Covered

• The importance of extracurricular activities in major applications
• Two primary categories (buckets) for organizing activities:
• "Tasting your major"
• Personal interest activities ("makes you you")
• How to differentiate yourself from other applicants

Key Takeaways & Insights

• Extracurricular activities are a critical way to stand out in the application process.
• Activities should be intentionally chosen to demonstrate both academic curiosity (related to your major) and individuality (personal interests).
• Admissions committees value applicants who show evidence of exploring their intended field and who also have unique, personal pursuits.

Actionable Strategies

• Select and participate in activities that directly relate to your intended major to show genuine interest and initiative (“tasting your major”).
• Engage in extracurriculars that highlight your unique personality, hobbies, or background (“makes you you”).
• Organize your activities list by these two buckets to ensure a balanced and compelling application profile.

Specific Details & Examples

• "Tasting your major" might include internships, academic clubs, research projects, competitions, or relevant volunteer work.
• "Makes you you" could involve artistic pursuits, sports, community service unrelated to your major, or personal projects.
• The video emphasizes that everything you do that isn’t directly related to your field still contributes to your application’s strength by showcasing who you are as a person.

Warnings & Common Mistakes

• Avoid listing only activities related to your major or only personal interests—balance is key.
• Don’t participate in activities just for the sake of resume padding; authenticity and genuine interest are crucial.
• Failing to organize or articulate your activities into these buckets can dilute your application’s impact.

Resources & Next Steps

• Take inventory of your current activities and categorize them into the two buckets.
• Seek out new opportunities that help you “taste” your major or develop your unique interests.
• Reflect on how you can communicate the value of both types of activities in your application essays or interviews.
• No specific external resources were mentioned in this segment, but the advice suggests self-reflection and strategic planning as immediate next steps.