Many colleges look for well-rounded students, so part of your college preparation should include getting involved in extracurricular activities, spending time with family and friends, and more. Start keeping track of your involvement by using our “Extracurricular Activities” handout (Adobe Acrobat Reader required). Here are some pointers to head you in that direction:

• Find out what clubs are offered in your high school or community, and consider joining one or more of the ones that interest you.
• Community service also is impressive to colleges, and there are countless ways to volunteer. Just ask around to find out what the needs are in your community.
• Are you interested in sports? Consider joining one of your school’s teams or getting involved in a community league.
• If you love the creative or performing arts — writing, acting, painting, dancing, singing, playing instruments, etc. — then figure out how to participate in these activities as well.

This list just scratches the surface, but the bottom line is that you can list your involvement in these kinds of activities on your college applications. Just be sure that your schoolwork comes first!