How to Describe Activities & Honors on The Common App: What Admissions Officers Really Want to See

The Common App isn’t just about the personal essay. The Activities and Honors & Awards sections can make or break your application — but most students fill them out wrong or miss critical opportunities to shine.

In this session, nationally recognized college admissions expert Allison Slater Tate shows you how to go beyond the essay and strategically complete these overlooked sections of the Common App. She explains how to present your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and awards in ways that highlight impact, authenticity, and growth — the qualities admissions officers are really looking for.

🎓 What you’ll learn in this video:

How to write effective activity descriptions that demonstrate depth and leadership

Why quality matters more than quantity in the Activities section

How to rank and prioritize activities to show your strongest commitments

The right way to list honors and awards (and which ones matter most)

Common mistakes students make that weaken their applications

How to make your Common App sections work together to tell a cohesive story

💡 The personal essay is only one part of your college application. By optimizing your Activities and Honors sections, you’ll give admissions officers a complete, compelling picture of who you are and what you’ll bring to campus.

👉 If your teen is applying to college this year, this guide will help them maximize every inch of the Common App and increase their chances of admission.

About Allison Slater Tate

Allison Slater Tate is a nationally recognized independent college admissions counselor and member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). With over two decades of experience in education and admissions advising, Allison has guided thousands of students and families through the college application process.

Known for her student-centered, holistic approach, Allison specializes in helping teens find their authentic voice and present themselves effectively through essays, activities, and applications. She is also a writer and speaker whose work has been featured in national outlets including The Washington Post, NBC News, The Atlantic, and Grown & Flown. Allison is passionate about demystifying the admissions process and empowering families with practical, clear, and compassionate guidance.