Clubs and volunteering
Nurse practitioner: these ideas suit all nursing careers. Pick a career below to see other ideas.
What colleges actually look for
- Depth, not a long list. Two or three activities over several years mean more than ten short ones.
- Growing responsibility. Leading, organizing, teaching, or starting something.
- Real impact. What changed because your child was there.
No single club guarantees admission.
Read the guide: what US colleges look for →Clubs to look for at school
- HOSA – Future Health Professionals(official website)HealthHealth-careers club with skills competitions.
- Red Cross club(official website)ServiceBlood drives and first-aid training.
- Biology or anatomy clubClubBuilds the science base nursing programs expect.
Volunteering ideas
- Hospital or nursing home volunteeringMany programs start at age 16.
- CPR and First Aid certificationShort courses from the Red Cross or American Heart Association.
- Care for an older relativeReal caregiving at home counts and is worth describing.
Some states allow Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training at 16, which gives real patient-care experience. Rules vary by state.
These count too
- A paid part-time job
- Caring for siblings or translating for parents
- Steady service at your temple, gurdwara, mosque, or community group
The Common App has its own categories for paid work and family responsibilities.
Last reviewed October 7, 2026.