The number of college applications is on the rise. More and more students are vying for those coveted spots. The competition is getting tougher. While grades, GPA and SAT/ACT scores are important when it comes to admissions there is still an important factor many students may overlook, community service.
Admissions counselors are looking a lot closer at a student’s community service record. We’ve seen over the years more students getting involved within their communities. However, many students are still asking if community service is really that important. A recent study on this subject showed that:
• At least 70% of college admission counselors are interested in seeing students who show a long term support of one cause over a student who is involved in a variety of short term causes. This can be viewed as showing dedication and commitment to something.
• Volunteering to work on a political campaign can be deemed as community service work if it is “not” paid.
• Students who took time off between high-school and college to perform community service work like the Peace Corps are highly favored when it comes to admissions.
Colleges are looking for students who are doing community service out of a sincere need to make a difference versus just passing their resumes. Showing a deeper commitment to something outside of their everyday life is what college admission counselors are looking closely at.
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