Scholar Lab: Activity List (for Class of '26)

*Exclusively for Access College America scholars

*For the Class of 2026

The Common Application Activity List is often used as a replacement for the resume in the college application. It is a list of 10 activities that the applicant has delved into over the span of their high school experience. It is an opportunity to highlight intellectual curiosities, accomplishments and showcase talent in a contextually rich way. But be advised: You only have 150 characters per entry! Strategy is needed.

Using our template, we will help you narrow your Common Application Activities List to your top 10 entries. We will discuss organization, rank and description. We will also look at tips for strengthening your list. We will discuss action verbs, provide suggestions to lengthen (or shorten) your descriptions for maximum impact.

Needed:

• Revised Scholar Vitae & Resume

• 2 Pens

• highlighter(s)

• notebook for taking notes

• 3-to-5 blank sheets of paper

Be Advised:

• This is a hands-on working lab with camera & audio on. Participation is required for all attendees.

• We suggest water & snacks readily available.

• Plan to be in a quite location suitable for brainstorming activities and writing.

• You MUST be at a desk and in front of a computer (no phones allowed).

PRESENTERS:

John Baier, MS

Director of Operations

Access College America

John studied at Purdue University. He completed his Bachelor's in psychology and Master's in Health and Kinesiology. As someone fascinated with impacting people's behavior, he took his knowledge of health and behavior change theory and worked with students as an executive functioning specialist.

His previous work with students helped them to better understand how to create effective organization strategies during the college application process. Additionally, this work also provided insight on how to overcome procrastination to stay on task and complete application components on time.

Shayla Rodriguez-Bell, M.A.

College Consulting Associate

Access College America

Shayla has been a Professional School Counselor for 23 years, working at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. The past 16 years have been spent working with high school students, supporting their academic goals and social emotional needs. She understands the value and benefits of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Credit and has a heart for International students.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, her focus has always been about helping and serving others. She is passionate about getting to know her scholars and their family units while supporting their goals and objectives. She likes to understand their “why” and encourages them to be confident in their choices.