“High School Resumes that Stand Out in a Crowded Applicant Pool”
Tips on creating a compelling activities list that highlights impact, leadership, and passion.
Why Your Activities List Matters More Than Ever
In today’s test-optional admissions world, the Activities List or student resume is playing an increasingly central role in how colleges evaluate applicants.
It’s not just what you do—it’s how you do it, why you do it, and what kind of person it reveals you to be.
Your resume isn’t a list of boxes checked. It’s a story of your interests, initiative, and identity—and one of the most powerful tools in your application.
Tip #1: Quality Over Quantity
You don’t need to do everything—you just need to show what matters to you.
The Common App gives students space to list up to 10 activities, but most admissions officers say they’d rather see genuine commitment and depth than a long list of scattered involvements.
Instead of trying to join every club, ask yourself:
- Where have I made a difference?
- What activities have helped me grow?
- Where have I shown up consistently?
Tip #2: Use Strong, Specific Language
- Each activity description should be written like a mini headline. Think:
“Founded and led monthly podcast interviewing local business owners about sustainability”
🚫 Not: “Podcast club member”
“Coordinated $5,000 fundraiser for pediatric cancer research; led team of 8”
🚫 Not: “Volunteered for cancer fundraiser”
Lead with action verbs, include metrics when possible, and describe outcomes. This helps colleges quickly grasp your leadership, responsibility, and initiative.
Tip #3: Organize Your Activities Strategically
Put your most impressive or relevant activities near the top of the list. If you’re applying for engineering, and you’ve been building robots since freshman year—that should be front and center.
Here’s a smart way to group your resume:
- Academic Enrichment – Research, summer programs, tutoring
- Leadership Roles – Clubs, student council, community organizing
- Service – Volunteer work, social impact projects
- Passion Projects – Anything you built or pursued independently
- Athletics / Arts – Especially if you’ve shown growth or recognition
- Work Experience – Jobs, internships, or family business responsibilities
Tip #4: Don’t Forget the “Unseen” Efforts
Colleges love to see students take initiative—even outside of school.
Do you run an Etsy shop? Manage a TikTok account that teaches coding? Help raise siblings or translate for your parents’ small business? Those things count and tell colleges a lot about your character, creativity, and time management.
Tip #5: Let Passion Drive the Story
Admissions officers often say, “Passion shows.” You can’t fake it.
Whether it’s writing poetry, organizing climate rallies, playing jazz piano, or coding apps, activities that reflect genuine interest stand out.
If your activities align with your intended major or personal values—even better. It shows direction, not just ambition.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Running Document
Start as early as 9th grade and keep a “living” resume where you jot down:
- What you did
- Why it mattered to you
- Hours/weeks/years of involvement
- Any awards or outcomes
When it’s time to apply, you’ll have everything ready—and nothing forgotten.
Need Help Crafting a Standout Resume?
At AP College Counseling, I help students create thoughtful, well-crafted activities lists that enhance the rest of their application.
Whether you’re applying to highly selective colleges or building your first resume, I’ll guide you in:
- Choosing what to highlight
- Writing strong descriptions
- Presenting your story with impact