Is there such a thing as the "right" activity?

Students checking out the Amnesty International table.

Last Friday the upper school hosted an activities fair, and students in grades 9 -12 had the opportunity to sample the rich variety of extracurriculars GPS has to offer. On Monday, those same students will sign up for their clubs of choice.  In-between those two events, several people have asked "Is there a right activity?"

In fact just yesterday, someone was lamenting that she didn't have any community service and inquired "Should I sign up for that?"

Despite what you might read elsewhere, we don't believe there is one activity that will result in an acceptance. It's kind of hard to fake a love for theater or writing or service, or sports, and that will more than likely be obvious to the person reading your application.  Really, they're smarter than that.

Model UN is another popular option.

What we do believe is that you should choose activities where you will have the greatest impact or the most potential for personal growth.  Yes, you do need some continuity in your activities. Bouncing around from one to another is probably not a good idea, so we like to see that you loyal and steadfast to a few of them.

Instead of trying to figure out the "right" activity, perhaps you should ask yourself this: Is any college worth trying to create a persona that isn't genuine?  Wouldn't you rather them accept you because of who you really are?  In the long run, it seems to me you will be much happier, no matter where you go.