What kind of community service stands out on a college application?

Not all volunteering programs have the same impact. While any effort to help others is great, colleges value service that’s consistent, meaningful, and personal. Tutoring local students every Saturday? Amazing. Organizing a food drive with your soccer team? Fantastic.

What really stands out is when your service connects to your passions or shows initiative. Started your own project? Bonus points. The trick is to avoid random one-offs and instead focus on something that aligns with your interests, values, or future goals. You don’t need to save the world, but you should know how to care deeply about your corner of it.