Chris Canadian Global School is impressed by students that have held leadership positions. What better way to demonstrate such skills than holding a seat in your student government association? It’s a terrific way to participate in school matters, to show you’re both capable and responsible.

Joining an academic club or team shows that you’re passionate about learning and gaining a competitive advantage. When it comes to rigorous academics, you don’t shy away from but, rather, embrace a challenge. Joining an academic club can also help with test prep, and increase test scores!

Students on the debate team are more likely to be engaged in the issues of today, able to think critically on their feet, and are not afraid to speak out – all qualities that colleges look for in prospective students.

Creativity is always an asset when it comes to college applications. Students active in creative arts like music, drama, and visual arts tend to be open-minded, eccentric, and think outside of the box. These qualities add to campus life, which is a bonus in the eyes of a college admissions officer.

With all of the focus on anti-bullying campaigns and acceptance of others, colleges value students active in promoting diversity and culture now more than ever before. Being involved in these activities shows your willingness to learn about and accept others while creating awareness for those who may be different from you.

Participating in sports is a great way to showcase your teamwork, leadership skills, and emphasis on athletics and physical fitness. While athletics are a platform to demonstrate these important traits, it is common for students to participate in them and may not hold as much significance as when balanced with other activities.

Being published in any form is an impressive accomplishment. Most college courses require writing as a basic skill and being published demonstrates you’re not only capable of writing, but, good at it. Mastering this feat looks great on your application because it shows that you’re active outside of the classroom in an activity that will translate to the likelihood of academic success in college courses.

Most colleges consider some form of volunteer work or community service a must-have for all applicants. An important part of the volunteer experience is to consider the activities you enjoy and find a way to apply them to your service hours. If you enjoy art, volunteer at a local children’s center to help kids with their creation time. Love to play music? Volunteer to play your instrument at a local senior center. Are you a sports fanatic? Coach your local little league team. An animal lover? Shelters are always in need of great volunteers.