This is a topic that I find SUPER exciting. "Supercurriculars" refer to activities or experiences that go above and beyond the standard curriculum and demonstrate a student's passion, interest, and commitment to a particular subject or field of study.
For example, if you intend to pursue a career in Physical Therapy, being part of your school's athletic training club or assisting/shadowing the Athletic Trainer would be a SUPER-curricular.
Benefits of Supercurriculars
The overall number one benefit is standing out against the endless sea of applicants. Imagine this...If you need to pick one candidate for a task, would you rather have the candidate:
- with real world experience relating to what you are asking them to do?
- who promises if you pick them they will do the best job but has no tangible evidence of their skills?
I know setting your application apart is reason enough, but there are several other reasons that supercurriculars can benefit your college application.
1) In-Depth Exploration:
Supercurriculars involve a deeper exploration of academic subjects beyond what is covered in regular coursework. This could include independent research, specialized projects, or participation in advanced courses or programs related to a specific field.
2) Showing Genuine Passion and Interest Relevant to Your Major or Career Path:
These activities showcase a student's genuine interest and passion for a subject. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who have gone beyond the basic requirements to pursue knowledge and experiences that align with their academic interests.
3) Demonstrating Self-Motivated Learning and Initiative:
Supercurriculars often involve self-directed learning. Whether it's attending lectures, workshops, or engaging in personal projects, these activities demonstrate a student's ability to take initiative and pursue intellectual growth independently.
*This demonstrates college-readiness and intangible factors such as internal motivation
4) Enhancing Personal Statements and Interviews
Supercurricular experiences provide rich material for personal statements, essays, and interviews. Students can reflect on how these activities have shaped their academic goals, personal growth, and their aspirations within the context of the college they are applying to.
5) Recommenders Related to Your Interests
Teachers or mentors who have guided students in their supercurricular pursuits can provide more nuanced and detailed letters of recommendation, adding depth to the overall application.
How to Find Supercurriculars
If your school does not have clubs or student groups aligned with your specific interests there are more ways to find supercurricular opportunities.
- Volunteer Work
- Shadowing or Internships
- Independent Research Projects
- Academic Competitions
- Attending Lectures, Workshops or Conferences (especially those who come with a certification of completion)
- Online Coursework
- Publishing Articles or Papers
In summary, supercurriculars provide a holistic view of a student's academic journey, passion, and commitment. They contribute to a well-rounded application, demonstrating qualities that go beyond grades and standardized test scores. When strategically chosen and effectively communicated, supercurriculars can significantly enhance a student's chances of admission to competitive colleges and universities.
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