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what extracurriculars can i do for ivy league applications

i am in y12 and am hoping to apply to a couple ivy leagues. my ECs currently are not very strong - they dont show any leadership skills, theres no awards etc. pls could i have some ideas of things i could do eg competitions to enter (i would like to eventually do law so maybe related to that, or politics or philosophy too as i take them for a level)
here are my ECs so far:
-flute grade 8, piano grade 7
-volunteering at a charity shop, so far for a year and a half
-2 week volunteering in uganda
-work experience with a judge for one week
-online work experience for law, one by slaughter and may, the other by linklaters
-online work experience for politics
-spanish tutoring for younger year groups
-part of 2 orchestras in school, in both i play the flute

any help of what i can do that would actually stand out or show true skills would be really appreciated

Reply 1

Hi personal-chef,
It sounds like you have a solid foundation with your extracurriculars, and it’s great that you’re thinking ahead about how to strengthen your profile for Ivy League applications! Here are some suggestions that could help you showcase leadership skills and align with your interests in law, politics, and philosophy:

1.

Debate Club or Model UN: Joining or starting a debate club can significantly enhance your public speaking and critical thinking skills. Participating in Model United Nations can also expose you to global issues and enhance your ability to engage in political discourse.

2.

Legal Internships or Shadowing: Seek out more extensive internships with law firms, local government offices, or non-profit organizations that focus on legal advocacy. Your work experience with a judge is a fantastic start; try to build on that with additional opportunities.

3.

Leadership Roles: Look for ways to take on leadership roles in your current activities. For example, if you're in an orchestra, consider running for a position like section leader. This shows initiative and the ability to lead others.

4.

Philosophy or Law Competitions: Look for essay competitions or public speaking contests related to philosophy or law. These can often be found through universities or educational organizations.

5.

Start a Blog or Podcast: Consider starting a blog or podcast discussing topics in law, politics, or philosophy. This not only showcases your knowledge but also your ability to communicate ideas effectively.

6.

Community Initiatives: Initiate or participate in community service projects that advocate for social justice, legal aid, or educational outreach. This could involve organizing workshops or information sessions on legal rights for local youth.

7.

Join a Political Campaign: Volunteering for a local political campaign can provide real-world experience in politics and help develop your understanding of civic engagement.

8.

Attend Workshops or Conferences: Look for workshops, lectures, or conferences related to law and politics. These experiences can expand your network and show your commitment to learning beyond the classroom.

9.

Further Language Skills: Since you’re tutoring in Spanish, consider participating in events that combine language with law or politics, like offering legal aid in bilingual settings.

Remember, it’s not just about quantity but quality. Choose activities that genuinely interest you and allow you to grow personally and professionally. Best of luck with your applications!

Reply 2

Original post by Anonymous
Hi personal-chef,
It sounds like you have a solid foundation with your extracurriculars, and it’s great that you’re thinking ahead about how to strengthen your profile for Ivy League applications! Here are some suggestions that could help you showcase leadership skills and align with your interests in law, politics, and philosophy:

1.

Debate Club or Model UN: Joining or starting a debate club can significantly enhance your public speaking and critical thinking skills. Participating in Model United Nations can also expose you to global issues and enhance your ability to engage in political discourse.

2.

Legal Internships or Shadowing: Seek out more extensive internships with law firms, local government offices, or non-profit organizations that focus on legal advocacy. Your work experience with a judge is a fantastic start; try to build on that with additional opportunities.

3.

Leadership Roles: Look for ways to take on leadership roles in your current activities. For example, if you're in an orchestra, consider running for a position like section leader. This shows initiative and the ability to lead others.

4.

Philosophy or Law Competitions: Look for essay competitions or public speaking contests related to philosophy or law. These can often be found through universities or educational organizations.

5.

Start a Blog or Podcast: Consider starting a blog or podcast discussing topics in law, politics, or philosophy. This not only showcases your knowledge but also your ability to communicate ideas effectively.

6.

Community Initiatives: Initiate or participate in community service projects that advocate for social justice, legal aid, or educational outreach. This could involve organizing workshops or information sessions on legal rights for local youth.

7.

Join a Political Campaign: Volunteering for a local political campaign can provide real-world experience in politics and help develop your understanding of civic engagement.

8.

Attend Workshops or Conferences: Look for workshops, lectures, or conferences related to law and politics. These experiences can expand your network and show your commitment to learning beyond the classroom.

9.

Further Language Skills: Since you’re tutoring in Spanish, consider participating in events that combine language with law or politics, like offering legal aid in bilingual settings.

Remember, it’s not just about quantity but quality. Choose activities that genuinely interest you and allow you to grow personally and professionally. Best of luck with your applications!

thank you so much!!!

Reply 3

Your extracurriculars are good and sound fine! But even if the worst comes to the worst, you could always go to a UK uni with a year abroad.

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