The Best Extra-Curricular Activities to Showcase Skills and Commitment on Your CV

When reviewing CVs, itrsquo;s essential to look for well-rounded candidates who not only excel academically but also engage in meaningful activities outside the classroom. Effective extra-curricular activities can showcase a candidatersquo;s skills, interests, and commitment. Here are some of the best types of extra-curricular activities to include:

Leadership Roles

Positions such as president, treasurer, or captain of a team demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and organizational skills. These roles require the candidate to guide and motivate others, manage tasks, and develop a vision for the team. Examples include:

President of a student council or organization Treasurer or financial officer of a club Captain of a sports team

Volunteer Work

Involvement in community service or non-profit organizations shows a commitment to social responsibility and teamwork. Volunteer roles often require dedication, punctuality, and the ability to work collaboratively with others towards a common goal. Examples include:

Volunteer at a local animal shelter Community service projects like beach cleanups or food drives Organizing a charity event

Clubs and Societies

Membership in academic clubs, like debate or science club, or cultural organizations can highlight a candidate’s interests and engagement in their field. These clubs often provide opportunities for critical thinking, public speaking, and networking with like-minded individuals. Examples include:

Member of a debate or Model UN club Science fair or robotics club member Participation in cultural exchange programs

Sports

Participation in individual or team sports indicates discipline, teamwork, and a competitive spirit. Sports not only provide physical benefits but also teach valuable life skills such as sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience. Examples include:

Participation in school sports teams like soccer, basketball, or volleyball Track and field athlete Cycling or swimming club member

Arts and Performance

Involvement in theater, music, or visual arts can demonstrate creativity and dedication. These activities often require discipline, practice, and a willingness to collaborate with others. Examples include:

Member of a school theater troupe Choreographing and performing in dance recitals Visual arts competitions or exhibitions

Academic Competitions

Participation in competitions such as math Olympiads, science fairs, or writing contests can illustrate intellectual curiosity and achievement. These competitions often require problem-solving skills, research abilities, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively. Examples include:

Winner of math competitions Gold medalist in science fair projects First-place finisher in creative writing contests

Internships

Relevant internships or work experiences, even if unpaid, can show practical experience and application of skills in real-world settings. Internships provide valuable insights into various industries and can often lead to job opportunities. Examples include:

Intern at a tech company Summer internship at a law firm or startup Internship in a creative agency

Research Projects

Engaging in research, especially if published or presented, highlights analytical skills and a commitment to learning. Research projects often require critical thinking, data analysis, and effective communication of findings. Examples include:

Research assistant in a university lab Published scientific paper or academic article Presenting findings at a conference or symposium

Professional Organizations

Membership in relevant professional associations can indicate a proactive approach to career development. Professional organizations often provide networking opportunities, access to industry events, and professional development resources. Examples include:

Member of IIM (Institute of Mathematical Sciences) Cargo LD (Children’s Learning Development) Association Professional womenrsquo;s organizations like SAO (Society of Automotive Engineers)

Certifications or Courses

Completing additional courses or certifications, such as coding boot camps or language classes, demonstrates a commitment to personal growth and skill development. These courses often provide specialized knowledge and enhance employability. Examples include:

Web development certification Python programming Language proficiency courses in Spanish, Mandarin, or German

Including a variety of these activities can provide a holistic view of a candidatersquo;s skills and interests, making their CV more compelling to potential employers. Moreover, good extra-curricular activities to include on a resume are those that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, initiative, and relevant skills for the job. Examples include club memberships, volunteer work, sports, community service, or participation in academic competitions. Choose activities that showcase your strengths and align with your career goals.