Prospective student-athletes are often so focused on their sport that they often forget that athletics are only one part of both the admissions process.
As a high school student, you are not applying to the athletics program – you are applying to the school! As such, it’s imperative to ensure you are an attractive candidate to the college admissions officers, not just a potential coach.
Here are three ways to bolster your college resume that have nothing to do with athletics.
1. Attain the Highest Board Scores/GPA You Can
This may feel like the most obvious statement ever when it comes to the recruiting process, but grades and test scores are two of the most important things in your control.
If you aren’t a good test taker, try taking the ACT or even the SAT Subject Tests. Take a course or hire a tutor to assist you. Skipping one event to afford a tutor may actually turn out to be the better investment.
No matter your talent level, you’ll need the grades to get into school. Remember, you should utilize athletics to get into the best academic school possible. College is a four-year journey, but your education will handle all of the years after.
2. Take AP/Honors Classes
Schedule as many difficult courses you can. While it may hurt your GPA slightly, college admissions officers will look kindly on the fact that you challenged yourself. It will speak to both your will to learn and work ethic.
In addition to making your college resume more attractive, these classes will also prepare you for classes at the next level and assist you in adjusting to the rigors and demands of college.
3. Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities
Being a well-rounded student includes participating in school clubs and organizations outside of athletics. This does not mean you need to join every club just to bolster your transcript, and surely trying to do so may result in stretching yourself too thin.
Instead, find areas of interest in your life and pursue opportunities in that space. If you enjoy watching movies or sports, consider writing for the school paper about those subjects. If you are interested in performance, consider opportunities in theater or other performing arts. Whatever your interests, find ways to explore them!
It is also a great idea to join a service organization at your school, be it volunteering your time at a local soup kitchen or visiting the local nursing home. These will often be very rewarding experiences.
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