Summer is Ideal Time for Student Volunteerism

Volunteerism is alive and well among young people in New Jersey, which comes in very handy when it’s time to apply for college admission.  Students who have not yet become engaged in “giving back” have a perfect opportunity this summer to find an activity that suits their interests and provides a needed service. 

The Jersey Cares website features activities to suit almost any personality.  For example, “Earth Keepers” is seeking volunteers at Island Beach State Park, the Watchung Reservation in Mountainside, and Liberty State Park. “NJ Seeds” offers tutoring opportunities in Martinsville, Madison, Livingston, West Orange and Morristown. Pet therapy volunteers are in need at “Care One” in Hamilton Township, Morristown, Hanover, and Wayne.

Students’ commitment to volunteerism is not only good for their communities, but it is also a great boost to their college applications.  Although SAT scores and G.P.A. are still the two most important criteria impacting college acceptances and scholarship awards, community service is of growing importance.

DoSomething.org, one of the largest U.S. organizations helping teens get involved in causes they care about, released a study tying volunteerism to college admissions.  The results indicated that admissions officers place a high value on a student’s long-term commitment to a cause or organization. Consistency is the priority, as colleges prefer students who support one cause over a period of time, demonstrating commitment and perseverance.  

Colleges favor students with a history of volunteerism with the hope that their commitment will enrich the college community, where there are limitless opportunities for involvement. The Department of Student Involvement at Rutgers University includes more than 450 student organizations, offering students limitless opportunities to serve others both locally and internationally through “Rutgers Alternative Breaks” service trips.

The College of New Jersey offers between 50 to 100 percent tuition scholarships to 100 students who make a substantial commitment to volunteerism by becoming Bonner Community Scholars.  These students choose to focus on a particular area of service, and provide 300 hours of meaningful volunteerism over the course of a year, combining service with their academic experiences.

Admissions officers used to consider it a bonus to find community service work listed on a college application.  Now it’s an expectation, with extra points for demonstrated levels of commitment and initiative.   

Susan Alaimo is the founder of SAT Smart. For the past 25 years, SAT Smart’s Ivy League educated tutors have prepared students for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, Subject Tests, AP courses, and all high school subjects. Visit www.SATsmart.com or call 908-369-5362.