Does Cardistry Qualify as a Meaningful ECA for University Applications?

When applying to universities, extracurricular activities (ECAs) can play a crucial role in showcasing your unique qualities and interests. However, with diverse and sometimes niche activities, such as cardistry, many applicants wonder if their chosen ECA will hold up against more traditional and well-known activities. This article explores whether cardistry can indeed qualify as a strong ECA and offers guidance on how to effectively present it on your application.

The Importance of Extracurricular Activities

Universities do not maintain a definitive list of accepted or ‘counted’ extracurricular activities. Instead, they view ECAs as any activity you pursue outside of coursework. This free-form approach allows for a broad range of interests, but it also raises the question: Will listing cardistry strengthen an application more than omitting it?

While universities won’t differentiate between activities in their admittance process, they do prioritize structured and traditional ECAs because of their measurable commitment and achievements. Examples of such activities include:

Martial arts, indicating specific belts achieved Cheerleading, with consistent activities across most schools Scouting, which requires completing certain tasks to reach designations Choirs and marching bands, rehearsing multiple times a week and competing National Honor Society, with service requirements

Having a few structured activities can enhance your application by providing solid proof of commitment and accomplishment. However, if you lack these structured activities, unique talents like cardistry can still make you stand out.

Presenting Cardistry as an ECA

If you choose to highlight cardistry as an ECA, it is crucial to provide a detailed explanation. Since cardistry (the art of performing tricks with a deck of cards) might be unfamiliar to most readers, a concise and informative written explanation is necessary. Additionally, you should emphasize the time you’ve dedicated to cardistry and any achievements you’ve made. Here are some ways to substantiate your ECA:

Measurement of Time and Achievements: Quantify the number of hours you’ve spent practicing and any notable achievements. For instance: Competitions and Shows: List any cardistry competitions you’ve participated in and any performances you’ve given. Cardistry often includes performances at local events, fundraisers, or even internationally, depending on your level of involvement. Other People Involved: Note the number of people who have participated in your cardistry activities or demonstrations. This can include fellow enthusiasts, fellow students, or members of the community. Online Presence: Share data on your YouTube channel, such as the number of views and subscribers, which can indicate a substantial audience and engagement. Teaching and Outreach: If you’ve taught cardistry to others, either in an organized or informal setting, this can demonstrate leadership and community engagement.

For example, if you are pursuing a STEM major, you can highlight how cardistry has helped you learn about symmetries, rotations, principles of aerodynamics, and multi-element structural stability. This connection between cardistry and STEM subjects can provide a compelling narrative in your application.

Unique Talents Versus Traditional ECAs

While cardistry can be a standout activity, it is important to recognize that it may not be as strongly measurable as traditional ECAs like sports teams or academic clubs. Here are some strategies to make your cardistry ECA more compelling:

Highlight Leadership: If you have organized or led cardistry events, mention these instances in your application. Integrate with Essays: Tie your cardistry passion to your goals and motivations in your personal essays or short answers. Explain how cardistry has influenced your academic or career aspirations. Use Visuals: If the application allows, include photos or videos of your cardistry performances. Visuals can effectively communicate the skill and dedication you’ve put into the activity. Quantify Work and Investment: For those who capitalize on cardistry through paid gigs, indicate that in your application. This shows a level of professionalism and financial responsibility.

Ultimately, the key to a compelling ECA lies in demonstrating how the activity shapes your character and future goals. Many universities appreciate unique talents, as they show a well-rounded individual with diverse interests. However, it is still essential to balance this with other structured activities to ensure a well-rounded application.

Remember that every university application is different, and the fit between your ECA and the university's values and goals is crucial. While cardistry may not immediately come to mind for traditional extracurricular activities, it can certainly make a meaningful contribution to your application when presented in the right way. By providing detailed achievements, tying the activity to your educational goals, and showcasing your dedication, you can make a strong case for how cardistry enriches your application.