Other than SAT scores and school grades, a student also needs to present an impressive ECA certificate, especially if they plan to study in the US. ECA plays an important role in a student´s overall development. However, choosing the right ECA and managing time is always important.
“ECA is something that students shouldn´t overdo. They need to balance studies, ECA and SAT/TOEFL scores. That way, admission officers won´t find a negative side to your capacity to excel in college,” says Abhusan Gautam, a graduate of Malpi Institute who got accepted in four top universities in the US.
“I would suggest students aspiring to study in the US to explore a variety of interests. It´s important to pursue the ECA you enjoy doing the most. Take it as an opportunity to keep yourself involved and explore new things,” he suggests.
Among the most popular ECA are sports, debate, writing articles for local newspapers, social service, martial arts, singing, dancing and swimming. Most colleges in Nepal provide most of these ECAs.
Little Angels, for example, provides basketball, football, volleyball, swimming, quiz, debate and volunteering service as ECA choices for students. However, the question raised by most students is of time management. “Yes, it is difficult to manage time with such a strict course structure and so many ECA choices. However, we don´t force students to take any sort of ECA. Also, students are allowed to take part in any ECA only after college time so that they don´t miss classes,” says Dilli Ram Upreti, Academic Coordinator at Little Angels College.
“ECA is especially important when we write recommendations for students who apply for study abroad. Apart from their grades, their ECA participation will be mentioned in their recommendations,” Upreti added.
However, universities first look at your SAT scores, your grades and finally your ECA certificates. If you fail to impress them with scores, hoping to get enrolled in a top university will only remain a pipedream.
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