The False Allure of Flashy Extracurriculars: What Really Impresses College Admissions

In today’s competitive college admissions landscape, high school students are often encouraged to build impressive resumes filled with eye-catching extracurricular activities, like founding a nonprofit or interning at major companies. But while these activities might turn heads, they might not have the impact students expect — and could even harm their chances of getting into top-tier universities.

Teenagers today are more likely than ever to be involved in a wide range of activities. From launching AI-powered apps to becoming the CEO of a self-created startup, students are filling their resumes with experiences designed to impress. But the reality is, these “resume builders” often miss the mark with college admissions officers, who are more interested in authenticity and depth of passion than in high-profile, overproduced activities.

The Problem with Over-Designed Resumes

Students are often advised by parents, tutors, or even well-meaning educators to engage in activities that look good on paper: traveling internationally for a global cause, starting a company with the goal of raising millions, or even signing up for prestigious internships at big-name corporations. However, these attempts at curating a perfect, well-rounded resume may seem manufactured rather than meaningful to college admissions officers.

In fact, these flashy activities can sometimes backfire. When a student pursuing a career in the arts starts a business, or a student interested in biology takes an internship at a tech company, admissions officers may see it as a sign that the student is more focused on gaining an edge for their college application than pursuing their actual interests or passions. This sends the message that the student is interested in college for the prestige rather than for personal or academic growth.

Authentic Passion Matters More Than a Long List of Achievements

What colleges are truly looking for, however, is authenticity. Instead of opting for activities simply because they look impressive, students should focus on pursuing endeavors that genuinely align with their interests. Admissions officers want to see passion and commitment — not the kind of surface-level involvement that comes from seeking accolades or recognition.

The shift toward skills-based hiring in many industries mirrors a growing trend among college admissions committees: a desire to see students who have invested in their true passions. For instance, starting a local community project that directly addresses a problem in one’s own town can speak volumes more than organizing a global charity event with no real connection to the student’s daily life.

Embrace Local, Meaningful Projects

Some of the most compelling projects a student can engage in do not require millions of dollars or international exposure. Many successful applicants to elite universities have built their resumes through personal, local projects that showcase their creativity, leadership, and ability to solve problems. These initiatives are much more likely to resonate with admissions officers because they reflect a student’s genuine interests and the real-world impact they can make, even at a young age.

For example, a student passionate about environmental science could start a sustainability initiative at their school, such as a composting program or a waste-reduction campaign. A budding inventor could create DIY gadgets for the local community or work on engineering projects that directly benefit their peers. These activities not only demonstrate initiative but also show that the student is actively pursuing something meaningful and attainable within their means.

Less Is More: Quality Over Quantity

It’s crucial for students to understand that they don’t need to overfill their schedules with high-profile internships or world-changing ventures. Focusing on fewer, but more impactful activities is often more beneficial than spreading oneself too thin. Colleges prefer students who have committed to projects that show a deep passion for something they genuinely care about, rather than those who have tried to juggle multiple activities in a bid to impress.

This doesn’t mean students should avoid leadership roles or prestigious programs altogether. Rather, the key is to approach these opportunities in a way that aligns with one’s true interests. A student who volunteers at a local animal shelter because of a genuine love for animals will be far more compelling to an admissions officer than one who does it simply because it looks good on a college application.

Learn from Failures

Another important aspect to consider is how students talk about their experiences — especially the challenges and setbacks they’ve faced. Colleges are not just interested in success; they want to know how a student has handled failure, learned from it, and adapted. A student who speaks honestly about the difficulties they’ve encountered in a project or extracurricular activity can demonstrate resilience, problem-solving skills, and a growth mindset — all traits that are valued in top universities.

A student who founded a small business but struggled to attract customers might still impress admissions officers by discussing the lessons learned, the adjustments made, and the perseverance required to continue. This authentic approach speaks to the student’s maturity, self-awareness, and ability to grow from experience.

Focus on What Truly Matters: You

Ultimately, the most successful college applicants are those who remain true to themselves. They don’t waste time crafting a resume they think will impress admissions officers. Instead, they focus on their personal growth, exploring the things they love, and building genuine skills. Colleges are looking for students who are passionate, creative, and committed to making a difference — not those who are trying to “game” the system.

In a world where college admissions have become increasingly competitive, it’s crucial for students to focus on the qualities that truly matter. Be authentic. Be passionate. And above all, be true to yourself. That’s the kind of applicant colleges want to see.