5 Tips to Sharpen Your Common App Activity Section
When admissions officers open your Common App, they’re scanning for impact. Your activity list isn’t just a résumé—it’s a chance to show them how you spend your time, what you care about, and how you’ve made a difference. With only 150 characters per description, every word has to pull its weight. Here’s how to make each entry shine.
1. Lead with Action Verbs
Start strong. Each description should begin with a vivid action word—“Led,” “Designed,” “Organized,” “Founded,” “Directed,” “Launched.” These immediately signal initiative and leadership.
Example: Instead of “Member of robotics club,” try “Engineered and programmed robots for regional competitions, earning 2nd place out of 40 teams.”
2. Quantify Whenever Possible
Numbers add credibility and help admissions officers visualize the scope of your impact. Include details like hours per week, number of people served, funds raised, or events organized.
Example: “Tutored 15 peers weekly in Algebra II, increasing average test scores by 20%.”
3. Highlight Impact, Not Just Duties
Think results, not just responsibilities. What changed because of your involvement? Did you solve a problem, launch something new, or create a ripple effect?
Example: “Founded school composting program, diverting 500 lbs of food waste annually.”
4. Prioritize Your Most Impressive Roles
You can list up to 10 activities—but the top few matter most. Put your most impactful, time-intensive, or leadership-heavy experiences first. Admissions officers may skim, so make those first impressions count.
5. Include Non-Traditional Activities
Not all commitments happen in a club or on a field. The Common App values real-life responsibilities—like caring for siblings, managing a household chore schedule, holding a part-time job, or helping with a family business. These experiences show maturity, time management, and responsibility. Treat them with the same detail and respect as any other activity.
Example: “Provided after-school care for 2 younger siblings, managing meals, homework help, and transportation for 15 hrs/week.”
Final Thought:
Your activities list is your story in miniature—showing what you value, how you lead, and how you’ve grown. A sharp, intentional list can transform an ordinary application into one that’s memorable.
At Momentum College Prep, we help students turn everyday involvement into compelling narratives that stand out. Ready to refine yours? Let’s get started.
