Colleges like to create an eclectic group of students for each freshman class that they admit. Every year the makeup of the class is likely to be different. Colleges like to see students who have a passion for something that they do. Many students have a passion for something but they haven’t figured out what it is yet. It is important for students to create their passion and they do this by learning and exploring the things that interest them most. Developing a passion takes time, effort and an emotional investment.
Usually a passion comes from something we are good at. It is much more enjoyable to do something where you experience success than when you continuously fail or succeed only with way too much effort. It does not have to be something common. As a matter of fact, when it comes to the college application, something uncommon that makes you unique is better. Sometimes an aptitude test can help uncover things you are good at.
Once you figure out something you enjoy, you must be willing to invest time. If you love taking pictures, study how to take even better pictures. There is ALWAYS more to learn. Set goals. These goals should be specific. There should be daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals. Continuously reevaluate your progress and continue to grow your passion. Read, take classes, research on the Internet, hang out with others who may have a similar passion. Finding your passion is like many things in life; you get out of it what you put into it. Passion gives us happiness.
Busy students may have trouble making a commitment to something like this with all of the other responsibilities they find as a student. But trust me when I say that the time spent in finding and developing your passion will pay off in your future. It can give you a lifelong activity that brings joy, and satisfaction. At best, it could evolve into a career. At worst, it can be a lifelong hobby.
Don’t know your passion yet? Think about what you love. Maybe you like to read political information on the Internet. Do you believe everything you read? How about becoming a political “Fact Checker”? This is definitely more unique than loving robotics. But be careful not to limit yourself; successful people typically combine more than one skill.
Colleges want students who are passionate about something and have stuck with this passion for a long time. It might be riding dirt bikes or fly-fishing. It does not have to be related to school activities. Students share their passion through their application and essays. Step out of your comfort zone. Think “out of the box”. Nothing is too unusual for you to invent when it comes to developing your passion. Passion will motivate you to work hard at something because you love it. Passion will make you a leader. Find your passion early. And if you haven’t found it yet; keep looking!
