Why should you volunteer or perform community service? Well, studies have shown that people who volunteer live longer, healthier and more fulfilled lives. But that’s not the only benefit. Here are just a few ways that volunteering, and community service will help you in your quest to get into the college or university of your choice:

It Shows Your Passions

Volunteering or community service can play a significant role in college admission decisions. It is a great way to show college admission officials who you are as a person, more than your scores or even essay can. There is often more than one applicant with the same test scores and even GPA. Your dedication to a specific cause, whatever that may be, can set you apart from the
pack. Therein lies the key. Showing perseverance and dedication across your high school career to a single (or a select few) cause or volunteer position shows not only your commitment, but also that you are able to balance your obligations.

It Can Help Narrow Your Major

Community service or volunteering is a great way to help you narrow your interests and perhaps find your future major. Think about your interests and find opportunities that align with those interests. For example, if you are interested in architecture, you might look at organizations that build houses for people who need them. Or if you are pre-med, you might volunteer in a hospital. Use the opportunities and connections that you make to discover your what you might want to do with the rest of your life.

The time to start thinking about where to volunteer is at the beginning of your high school career, but even if you have waited, it is not too late. Not sure where to start? Especially in this time of uncertainty? We can help you plan and organize now so that you can help in person and guide you to find ways to volunteer online. There are even organizations like food pantries, homeless shelters and others that have found ways for volunteers to help safely now.

The most important thing to remember is that you should choose community service and volunteering opportunities that are connected to your interests. Don’t just choose what you think will look good on a college application.