Document achievements

Overview

Keeping track of your achievements throughout the year makes application season much less stressful. Start documenting now!

What to Document

For Each Activity

• Activity name and organization
• Your position/role
• Hours per week and weeks per year
• Specific responsibilities
• Achievements and impact (with numbers!)
• Awards or recognition

Examples of Quantifiable Impact

• "Raised $2,000 for local food bank"
• "Led team of 15 volunteers"
• "Increased club membership by 40%"
• "Organized event with 200 attendees"

Create a Tracking System

Use a spreadsheet or document with columns for:

• Activity name
• Position
• Grade levels (9, 10, 11, 12)
• Hours/week and weeks/year
• Description of contributions
• Awards/recognition

Why This Matters

The Common App has specific formats:

• 50 characters for position
• 150 characters for description
• 10 activities maximum

Having details ready makes filling this out much easier!

Update Regularly

Set a reminder to update your tracking document 2-3 times per year — at the end of each semester and after summer.