
In this episode of "Don't Chuck It Up," your host, Chuck, dives deep into extracurricular activities for college applications. He guides listeners on how to craft a compelling activities list for platforms like the Common App, Coalition App, and University of California App. Chuck debunks the myth that all ten activity slots must be filled, reassuring students that most do not, and that authenticity trumps quantity. Discover the broad definition of an extracurricular, encompassing anything outside of graded class time, including summer activities and online involvement. The episode highlights often-overlooked categories such as volunteering and community service (even helping elderly relatives counts if extensive time is involved!), paid work and employment (yes, babysitting too!), and summer camps. Chuck also discusses traditional school clubs and organizations, music, and sports, advising students to count all practice and travel time not included in class hours. Crucially, he emphasizes including hobbies and personal passions such as reading, baking, collecting moss, working out, and caring for family members or younger siblings. The key takeaway? Don't pick activities to impress, but rather choose those that bring you joy and that you can discuss with genuine passion. So go forth, list those passions, and conquer your college applications like a boss!