Clubs and volunteering
Paralegal: these ideas suit all legal 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
- Speech and debate(official website)CompetitionBuilds argument and public speaking.
- Mock TrialCompetitionStudents play lawyers and witnesses in a practice trial.
- Model UNCompetitionDebate world issues as a country’s delegate.
- Student government or school newspaperLeadershipLeadership, writing, and public service.
Volunteering ideas
- Translate at community eventsHelp newer families with forms and information.
- Tutor English learnersPatience and clear explanation.
- Nonpartisan civic eventsHelp run town halls or civic education days.
Law school comes after a bachelor’s degree in any major. Writing, speaking, and reasoning skills matter most now.
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.