"Extracurricular activity gives insight into the non-academic interests of an applicant, and ultimately a glimpse into student motivation. While not the most important consideration of an admission committee at Carnegie Mellon, understanding how a student spends time outside the classroom can be an interesting consideration which adds value to building a diverse freshman class.

"It is typically not the quantity of extracurricular participation, but the quality of it which ends up being an important consideration. A student does not have to be club president, captain, or newpaper editor, etc., but admission committees do appreciate meaningful contributions or experiences that a student may have had outside the classroom."

Michael Steidel
Director of Admission
Carnegie Mellon University

"What makes a highly selective university 'highly selective' is the applicant pool. Far more qualified applicants will apply than can be accepted. What distinguishes a candidate will be the quality of academic curriculum and extraordinary initiative. But, also, personal qualities and achievement. That usually translates into extracurriculars. Being president isn't as important as significant involvement."

Roland M. Allen
Associate Director of Admissions
Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Extracurriculars count insofar as they demonstrate one's capacity to manage time, while doing well academically. The quality of the involvement is always more important than the quantity of the involvement."

Tony Strickland
Associate Director of Undergraduate Admissions
University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

"Yes, extracurriculars do count in the admissions process. While not as important as the academic record, the committee on admissions is interested in knowing what each applicant does with her or his time when not in the classroom. Please note that "extracurriculars" should not be limited to sports and leadership roles. Community service, part-time employment, forensics, boy/girl scouts ... all tell us what you might be expected to 'share with your fellow classmates' should you enroll at our institution."

Daniel J. Saracino
Assistant Provost for Enrollment
University of Notre Dame

"Yes, that is okay, and don't spread yourself too thin. Do something that interests you and really get involved in it. This shows that you are interested in improving your community."

Allen Pritchard
Assistant Director of Admissions
Randolph-Macon Woman's College

"When reviewing a folder, I ask myself the question, 'Has this student made good use of his/her time?' This question can be effectively answered with extracurriculars: clubs, sports, and activities; a part-time job; or participation in groups outside of school, such as scouts, religious organizations, or community orchestras. Leadership in organizations is a good thing but it doesn't assure me that you have done anything. Whether you are a president, captain, player, o...