Get involved!

Kids always ask me, "What can I do to get into a good college?" It makes me laugh. There are so many variables in that question... What defines a "good" college? And how do you define "look good?"

There are about a gazillion things a student can do to demonstrate passion, leadership, commitment and accomplishment.

I'm not about to assign tasks that will make students "look good" to a college. Students need to look inside to decide what talents or interests they want to develop and then look for ways to achieve success in those areas. High school should be academics, wrapped in activities, social growth and fun! The question always worries me a bit , because if students are plotting their high school years, choosing activities or courses based solely on what they think will "look good" to a college admissions office, they are going to miss out on a whole lot the fun involved in high school; and many great opportunities for personal growth.

It's been my observation over the years that the best thing anyone can "do" to impress a college is to get involved in something of interest; and then really get involved. You can start out as a member of a club, team or group or whatever, but if you step up with passion, before you know it, you'll be assuming leadership roles and become emotionally invested in your activity. Then you have evidence that you are a person who can make things happen; and afterall, that's what every campus is hoping to recruit - the "movers and shakers" of the next generation.

So don't ask me what you can do to get into a good college, instead ask yourself, "What are my passions, my talents and my interests?"