Activities Section Overview
The Common App gives you space for up to 10 activities. You do not need to fill all 10 slots — it's better to have 7 substantive entries than 10 padded ones. List them in order of personal significance: your most meaningful or time-intensive commitment first.
What Counts as an Activity
Activities include clubs, sports, arts, community service, employment, internships, research, religious organizations, family responsibilities, and personal projects. Caring for a sibling, running a small business, or creating content online all qualify. Don't leave legitimate commitments off because they seem informal.
Writing 150-Character Descriptions That Work
This is where most students waste their biggest differentiator. A weak description: "Played violin in school orchestra for four years." A strong description: "Principal second violin; performed at Carnegie Hall regional competition; mentored 6 beginners in after-school program." Use abbreviations freely. Lead with your role, then impact or scope.
Honors Section
The Honors section allows up to 5 entries. Include awards that required selection — academic competitions, national recognition programs, scholarships, regional contests. Don't list participation ribbons or perfect attendance. If an honor is self-explanatory, use the description field to add context like "top 1% nationally" or "1 of 20 students selected statewide."
Common Mistakes
Avoid listing activities alphabetically or by school year. Don't use the description field to repeat the activity name. Don't omit paid work — employment demonstrates responsibility and often significant time commitment.