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In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: extracurricular activities.
Whether you're applying through the Common App, Coalition App, or University of California system, Chuck explains how to build a compelling activities list that truly reflects who you are. 🚀
✅ Myth-busting moment: You don’t need to fill all 10 activity slots. Authenticity and passion matter more than quantity!
🎯 Chuck covers:
What actually qualifies as an extracurricular (hint: it's anything outside of graded class time!)
The value of volunteering and community service – even caring for family members or helping a neighbor
Why paid jobs, babysitting, and summer activities count just as much as school clubs
How to accurately include music, sports, and online hobbies – and yes, even collecting moss or baking!
Tips on writing about your activities with genuine enthusiasm and intention
💡 Pro Tip: Colleges want to see what makes you unique. So don’t list activities to impress—list what makes you excited.
Whether you’re a student prepping your apps or a parent helping behind the scenes, this episode will help you own your story and stand out on your college applications.
🎧 Tune in now and get ready to crush your activities list with confidence!
By Chuck Erickson - Independent Educational Consultant and College Counselor5
88 ratings
In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: extracurricular activities.
Whether you're applying through the Common App, Coalition App, or University of California system, Chuck explains how to build a compelling activities list that truly reflects who you are. 🚀
✅ Myth-busting moment: You don’t need to fill all 10 activity slots. Authenticity and passion matter more than quantity!
🎯 Chuck covers:
What actually qualifies as an extracurricular (hint: it's anything outside of graded class time!)
The value of volunteering and community service – even caring for family members or helping a neighbor
Why paid jobs, babysitting, and summer activities count just as much as school clubs
How to accurately include music, sports, and online hobbies – and yes, even collecting moss or baking!
Tips on writing about your activities with genuine enthusiasm and intention
💡 Pro Tip: Colleges want to see what makes you unique. So don’t list activities to impress—list what makes you excited.
Whether you’re a student prepping your apps or a parent helping behind the scenes, this episode will help you own your story and stand out on your college applications.
🎧 Tune in now and get ready to crush your activities list with confidence!

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