"How did you spend your summer vacation?" This is a question often asked by admission officers of high school students during a college interview. It is also a requirement on most college applications and an integral part of the college admission procedure. As members of the Class of 2011 at area high schools contemplate the college counseling process and begin to formulate their listing of extra-curricular activities and participation in athletics to include with their college applications, it is important to review the time and effort devoted to each pursuit and the level of commitment extended.

Admissions representatives are eager to learn what a student is passionate about and how they spend their time outside of the classroom. Involvement in out-of-school activities enables a student to develop leadership skills, learn about an outside interest, participate in a meaningful activity, serve a worthy organization, or build upon athletic prowess, and all the while giving time, talent and energy to a cause or team. Some students opt to spend their time exploring a career field through an internship or co-op experience at a non-profit, some work at a local store, babysit, or assist at home with daily chores as well as pursue a sport.

During the academic year, students can choose from myriad clubs, activities, and athletics at school to add to their profile. It is important that students participate in activities that are of personal interest to them as the experience will be that much more rewarding. Aspiring applicants need to focus their extra-curricular activities on their personal strengths and direct their attentions and abilities where they will find the most benefit as in doing so they will ultimately thrive.

Colleges and universities want to see a student who has been involved over time in activities that will represent a diverse range of talents and interests; ones that the student will hopefully continue with at the collegiate level, if admitted to their institution. They are not interested in reviewing a mish mash listing of multiple programs, organizations, clubs, sports and activities where the student has been unable to commit themselves in a meaningful way. Colleges seek applicants who offer consistency and steadiness, as this shows commitment of both time and effort that hold significance to the applicant. It certainly is beneficial, too, if the student's letters of recommendation can address the candidate's participation in these activities, in addition to touching on their academic preparation.

As always, it is important for each student to have a healthy balance of academics and activities as they prepare to apply to college. Some summer programs and activities continue throughout the academic year and students should be, if time allows, encouraged to continue their participation.

Rising seniors should review the websites of the colleges and universities they are considering and check out their athletics and activities section. Do they have the same type of programs and sports that you are currently involved in? Will you be able to continue at the collegiate level? If you have specific questions like these, feel free to contact the appropriate person at the institution, using the link or contact information provided on the school's website.

These are all things to consider as you begin to focus on the college application process and your current list of activities and athletic accomplishments. Good luck!

Sarah Soule is an independent educational consultant with 28 years of experience working with students regarding the college and independent school admissions process. She is a professional member of IECA, www.sarahsoule.com. She serves as the director of admissions and college counseling at the Vermont Commons School in South Burlington and previously worked as a senior member of the admissions staff at Champlain College.