How can my students add extracurricular value to their applications?
Can recording a podcast, writing a blog or even holding a part-time job help your students’ university applications? Yes – and their future employment prospects, too
Todd Bowen
Demonstrating passion in areas of interest can significantly bolster students’ success when applying to university.
By participating in activities both within and outside school that align with their passions, students not only discover and hone skills and abilities but also demonstrate their dedication, initiative and commitment to personal and professional growth.
As high school advisers, we should encourage and support students to explore their interests, pursue their passions and showcase their unique strengths and talents. This will help them to achieve success not only in university applications but also in future job interviews, transcending the school environment and paving the way for their professional journey.
In school
Sports, clubs and student government:?Participating in sports teams, clubs and student government fosters teamwork, leadership qualities and countless other skills. It also demonstrates commitment and dedication to a particular interest. Admissions officers and potential employers value these qualities, as they indicate a willingness to go above and beyond.
Music and cultural shows:?Involvement in cultural shows, music programmes or performances showcases creativity, artistic talent and the ability to collaborate with others in a creative environment. These experiences can set students apart in university applications and job interviews, especially for programmes or positions that prioritise creativity and skill.
Junior achievement programme, Duke of Edinburgh award, mooting competitions, Model United Nations, European Youth Parliament:?Engaging in these programmes not only demonstrates a passion for topics, such as entrepreneurship, law or international affairs, but also shows initiative and a desire for real-world learning experiences. These activities can provide students with valuable skills, such as critical thinking, public speaking and diplomacy, which are highly sought after by universities and employers alike.
School department trips, robotics team, competitions:?Participation in school department trips, robotics teams, or competitions highlights students’ interest in STEM fields, their problem-solving abilities and their willingness to take on challenges. These experiences demonstrate hands-on learning and a proactive approach to exploring and mastering complex subjects, which can greatly enhance university applications and job interviews in related fields.
Outside school
Jobs, volunteering, work-shadowing:?Holding part-time jobs, volunteering or shadowing professionals in fields of interest not only provides valuable experience but also demonstrates initiative, responsibility and a genuine interest in exploring potential career paths. Admissions officers and employers look favourably on applicants who have actively sought out opportunities to gain practical knowledge and skills outside the classroom.
Attend workshops and presentations:?Attending workshops and presentations related to specific interests emphasises a student’s proactive approach to learning and personal growth. These experiences demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and skill development, which can make a positive impression on university admissions committees and prospective employers.
Scouts and Girl Guides:?Joining the Scouts or Girls Guides or similar organisations related to specific interests shows that students are continuously acquiring new skills, building teamwork skills and commiting to a long-term club.
Produce a blog, join a band, create a web page:?Pursuing creative goals such as starting a blog, joining a band or creating a web page not only showcases artistic or technical skills but also demonstrates innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. These endeavours can serve as impressive portfolio pieces for university applications or job interviews in fields related to arts, media or technology.
Invent something, create a podcast, organise a film production, build something:?Initiating projects, such as starting a company, organising a film production or building something tangible, demonstrates ingenuity, problem-solving abilities and leadership skills. These entrepreneurial ventures highlight a student’s ability to think outside the box, take initiative and bring ideas to fruition, which can significantly enhance their competitiveness in university applications and job interviews.
Read articles and books, watch documentaries and presentations, listen to podcasts:?Engaging in self-directed learning by reading articles, watching documentaries and listening to podcasts related to areas of interest demonstrates intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and a commitment to staying informed. Unifrog has a dedicated pathway for these. Admissions officers and employers value applicants who are intellectually curious and actively seek to expand their knowledge beyond the classroom, as it indicates a genuine passion for learning and personal growth.
Summer programmes:?Many universities and educational institutions offer summer programmes tailored to specific interests, ranging from STEM fields to arts and humanities. These camps provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to delve deeper into subjects they are passionate about, while interacting with peers who share similar interests. Participation in such programmes not only enhances academic knowledge but also fosters social connections and personal growth.