4 Best Extracurricular Activities to Impress Colleges

2017 was the most difficult year ever recorded when it came to earning a spot at the most elite colleges in the country -- and 2018 will likely continue that trend.

We know that impressing colleges and improving your academic performance and personal resume is on the minds of students of all ages. You want to be able to have fun and enjoy your time in high school.

However, you also want to have the kind of application that makes the best colleges in the world pay attention.

The good news?

Choosing the best extracurricular activities allows you to combine your passions with the kinds of experiences and qualifications college admissions counselors want to see.

So, what high school activities should you be taking part in?

Keep on reading this post to find out.

1. Get Involved with Student Government

Do you have a passion for leadership? Have you always enjoyed history, social studies, and economics courses? Do your friends often come for you for advice and encouragement?

If you answered "yes" to any of the following questions, then a "career" in student government might be an awesome opportunity for you. Colleges are looking for students that care about campus life, and want to serve as a representative for the student body.

Plus, it shows that you're involved, not afraid to be a leader, and that you can be diplomatic when it comes to dealing with differing opinions.

Remember that you don't always have to run for Class President to get involved in student government (though it would be great if you did)! You can also run as a Secretary, Treasurer, or Vice President.

To get a better feel as to whether or not the opportunity is something you want to pursue, try getting your feet wet by volunteering on a school planning committee.

2. Join the Honor Society

Are you looking to plan for your professional future -- while also proving to colleges that you're committed to academic success?

Would you like to be a part of a community of like-minded peers that you can learn from as opposed to simply competing with?

If so, then you should consider joining the Honor Society.

The truth is that, while of course activities outside of academic life matter, you do want to prove to colleges that your prioritize your grades above anything else.

When you become a member of the Honor Society, you're sending a message to colleges that you're willing to go the extra mile when it comes to your academic reputation.

You'll gain access to more exclusive academic opportunities, and set yourself apart from other applicants in your chosen area of study.

But there are more than simply extracurricular benefits to becoming a member of the Honor Society. You'll also be eligible for exclusive scholarship opportunities, networking events, and much more.

When you're looking to meet the right people, get discounts on opportunities to further your academic career, or receive priority access to the perfect internships?

Few things provide the kind of academic support that becoming a member of the Honor Society will.

3. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About

Volunteering isn't just one of the best extracurricular activities for your resume. It's also one of the best things you can do for your own personal growth.

To get the most out of your volunteering experience, we suggest going with a cause that's close to your heart. Look for opportunities that intersect with your interests, and perhaps even your personal history and experiences.

For example, if your sibling is deaf, you might sign up for a volunteer session teaching sign language to families of the hard of hearing. If you're passionate about creative writing, volunteer to work as a writing tutor for a student learning English for the first time.

Look for both on and off-campus volunteer initiatives -- and be aware that some of these opportunities might even be able to earn you credit for classes. If you don't see any opportunities you want to volunteer for, why not create your own?

Remember, anything that puts you in a leadership position, especially as it relates to community outreach and education, will catch the attention of a college counselor.

So, don't be afraid to put yourself out there.

4. Give Theatre a Try

Theatre is also on our list of activities that impress college admissions boards because it combines creativity with literature.

It combines the ability to capture the attention of a room, and the use multiple skills all at once.

So go ahead and take that chance to try out for your high school's play or musical.

In addition to helping you with public speaking, confidence, and even your persuasive skills, acting will also widen your social circle. Plus, nightly rehearsals and the physical toll of singing and dancing will help to teach you discipline.

Colleges see acting and theatre as one of the best extracurricular activities because it demonstrates that the applicant has a creative side.

While excellent grades are certainly important, you also want to show that you have a passion for the arts. If acting isn't quite your style, you can try playing an instrument, getting involved in a local or school visual art club, or even trying your hand at fashion designing.

Give the Opportunities on this List of the Best Extracurricular Activities a Try

We hope that this post has taught you about a few of the best extracurricular activities that colleges will certainly take notice of.

Remember to look for opportunities that allow you to combine the things you're most passionate about with a chance to show off your skill set.

Above all, make it a point to surround yourself with others that share your academic goals.

Are you ready to become a member of the Honor Society, learn more about the scholarships you're eligible for, or secure more advice related to your academic future?

If so, then let our blog guide you every step of the way.