65 Great High School Activities to Impress Colleges

We believe that every student should follow their instincts and do what they love. That being said, it is important to know what stands out to colleges and how you can turn your interests and hobbies into impressive activities for your college application. Here are a few ideas:

Academic and Intellectual Pursuits

1. National Honor Society – Leadership and community service.
2. Debate Team – Public speaking, argumentation skills.
3. Science Olympiad – Hands-on STEM experience.
4. Math Team – Problem-solving and competition.
5. Model United Nations (MUN) – Global awareness and diplomacy.
6. Academic Decathlon – Multi-disciplinary academic competition.
7. Quiz Bowl – Knowledge across various subjects.
8. Robotics Club – Engineering and teamwork.
9. Creative Writing Club – Enhancing literary skills.
10. School Newspaper – Journalism and writing experience.
11. Foreign Language Club – Cultural and language immersion.
12. Environmental Science Club – Sustainability and activism.
13. Speech and Debate – Persuasive communication.
14. Mock Trial – Legal knowledge and public speaking.
15. Science Research Projects – Independent research and publication.

Arts and Creative Expression

16. Art Club – Visual arts and exhibitions. 17. School Band/Orchestra – Musical performance and teamwork. 18. Theater/Drama Club – Acting, directing, and production. 19. Photography Club – Artistic expression through photography. 20. Film Club – Filmmaking and critique. 21. Dance Team – Choreography and performance. 22. School Choir – Vocal music performance. 23. Digital Design Club – Graphic design and multimedia. 24. Fashion Design Club – Creativity and textile arts. 25. Creative Writing Publications – Literary magazines or blogs. 26. Yearbook Committee – Design, photography, and storytelling.

Leadership and Service

27. Student Government – Leadership and school governance. 28. Peer Tutoring – Academic support and mentoring. 29. Community Service Club – Volunteering and civic engagement. 30. Key Club – Leadership and community service. 31. Boy/Girl Scouts – Leadership and outdoor skills. 32. Leadership Conferences– Leadership training and networking. 33. Volunteer Firefighter/EMT – Emergency response and public service. 34. Organizing Blood Drives – Community health initiatives.

Athletics and Physical Activities

35. Varsity Sports Team – Commitment and teamwork. 36. Track and Field/Cross Country – Endurance and discipline. 37. Martial Arts – Discipline and physical fitness. 38. Swimming Team – Individual and team performance. 39. Tennis Team – Strategy and physical skill. 40. Cheerleading – School spirit and athleticism. 41. Gymnastics – Strength and flexibility. 42. Outdoor Adventure Club – Hiking, kayaking, and nature exploration. 43. Yoga/Meditation Club – Mental and physical wellness.

STEM and Technology

44. Coding Club – Programming and app development. 45. Astronomy Club – Space exploration and science. 46. Engineering Club – Building and design projects. 47. Biology/Chemistry Club – Advanced science exploration. 48. STEM Summer Programs – Intensive learning in STEM fields. 49. Hackathons – Collaborative coding and innovation. 50. MathCounts – Middle school math coaching.

Entrepreneurship and Business

51. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) – Business skills and competition. 52. DECA – Marketing, finance, and management. 53. Investment Club – Financial literacy and stock market. 54. School Store Management – Retail and business operations. 55. Running a Small Business – Entrepreneurship and leadership. 56. Junior Achievement – Business education and innovation.

Cultural and Diversity Engagement

57. Cultural Exchange Programs – Global awareness and diversity. 58. International Club – Promoting cultural understanding. 59. LGBTQ+ Alliance Club – Advocacy and support. 60. Ethnic Studies Club – Exploration of cultural history and issues.

Health and Wellness

61. Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) – Medical skills and knowledge. 62. Mental Health Awareness Club – Advocacy and support. 63. Nutrition and Wellness Club – Promoting healthy lifestyles.

Miscellaneous

64. Public Speaking Club – Confidence and communication skills. AND A FAVORITE OF LEE”S 65. Volunteer at Animal Shelters – Compassion and community service.

These activities cover a broad range of interests, demonstrating leadership, commitment, and passion—all qualities that colleges look for in applicants.