Maximize your College Applications with Extracurricular Activities (ECAs) : Part 1

College applications attract hundreds of competitive applicants from across the country. So, what's the secret to standing out? Extracurricular activities, of course! Thoughtfully selected extracurricular activities (ECAs) can be a powerful tool in distinguishing yourself. Whether through leadership, community impact, or unique personal projects, ECAs provide the opportunity to present a well-rounded, compelling application that truly sets you apart. When applying to prestigious institutions like Ashoka University and Masters Union, academic achievements are vital but ECAs can be a cherry on the top! Let’s go over some of them that can really make you stand out :-

1. Leadership Roles in Clubs and Societies

A student who demonstrates leadership potential is always valued by colleges. And there’s no better way to showcase your abilities than leading a club or society in your school towards growth. These roles could range from being president of the student council, head of a debate club, or captain of a sports team. It reflects your ability to manage responsibilities, collaborate, and make impactful decisions.  Leadership in ECAs shows you can lead, communicate effectively, and inspire peers.

For Ashoka University, which promotes a liberal arts curriculum, leadership roles in clubs related to literature, arts, or community service can be particularly appealing. Masters' Union, with its focus on business and technology, prefers leadership in entrepreneurial, finance, or technology clubs.

2. Community Service and Social Impact Initiatives 

Community service is highly regarded in applications. They show a genuine commitment to making a change in society. It could be through volunteering at a non-profit, starting a social enterprise, organizing cleaning drives, fundraising for social issues, etc. Volunteering reflects empathy, initiative and a desire to contribute to society. 

Ashoka University’s emphasis on creating change-makers makes social work or performing activities at the grassroots level a strong differentiator in your application. Masters' Union, while business-focused, also values candidates who understand the importance of giving back and driving social impact through innovation. Initiating a project that addresses local challenges or working with marginalized communities can be a highlight in your profile.

3. Entrepreneurial Ventures

In recent years, entrepreneurship has become a key ECA with the potential to set you apart. It demonstrates innovation, creativity, leadership and a desire to learn. Starting a business, launching a non-profit, or even leading a startup idea within your school shows risk-taking and problem-solving abilities. Don’t shy away from it! You have the curiosity of an entrepreneur because you are reading this blog and want to make a change, even if it’s in your college application!

For Ashoka University, a student-driven startup focused on a social cause or an innovative idea that aligns with liberal education can be a great talking point. At Masters' Union, showcasing entrepreneurial skills related to business, technology, or finance will resonate well with their program's goals.

4. Internships and Specialized Courses

Internships can be a powerful addition to your extracurricular portfolio. Internships provide hands-on experience, problem solving skills, and professional networking opportunities. Adding internships and specialized courses to your ECA list shows that you are not just theoretically prepared but have also gained practical skills and insights that will benefit you in real-world applications.

Landing internships requires having relevant skills, and an effective way of acquiring these skills is through online or specialized courses. Don’t hesitate to reach out in your network and see what opportunities are open! You can ask for referrals from your relatives and friends, or reach out to professionals on sites like LinkedIn.

For Ashoka University, internships in social enterprises, NGOs, or think tanks align with the university’s focus on social impact and research. Completing online courses in areas such as liberal arts, humanities, or social sciences can also bolster your application by showing intellectual curiosity and subject matter expertise. For Masters' Union, internships in business, startups, or tech-focused companies are highly valued. Additionally, taking relevant online courses in business, data analytics, marketing, or technology will showcase your proactive approach to learning and align with Masters' Union’s industry-integrated curriculum.

     Conclusion

Extracurriculars (ECAs) are more than just a way to fill up your application - they reveal who you are and what you want to do beyond academics.  When applying to Ashoka University or Masters' Union, it’s important to highlight how your ECAs have helped shape your personality, develop your leadership skills, and contribute to the community. Whether it’s through leading a club, volunteering, starting a business, or pursuing an internship, these activities showcase your unique strengths.

Remember, it’s not about how many ECAs you’ve participated in, but the impact they’ve had on you and those around you. By thoughtfully reflecting on your experiences and connecting them to your future goals, you’ll create an application that truly stands out.

Do you want more assistance regarding your ECAs? Read more blogs on the GuidEx website or contact our mentors! There’s a lot more ways to make your ECs stand out, so check out Part 2 of this article! Happy Learning!