Does community service really help with college admissions?

Yes, and no. Community service isn’t a golden ticket to Harvard or any ivy league or prestigious college, but it can make your application sparkle if done right. Admissions officers aren’t impressed by sheer hours. They’re looking for genuine impact, commitment, and self-awareness. Did you show leadership? Did it change your perspective? Did you help someone beyond just posting about it online? Colleges want students who’ll contribute to their campus culture, and service shows you’re already wired that way. So if you volunteered just to check a box, meh. But if you rolled up your sleeves and made a difference? Now we’re talking.