Supplementing a resume with relevant activities beyond academics or formal work experience provides a more holistic view of a candidate. For example, participation in a debate club showcases communication skills, while volunteering demonstrates community engagement and initiative. Choosing activities that align with the target job or demonstrate desirable soft skills can significantly strengthen an application.
Including these experiences offers potential employers insight into a candidate’s personality, passions, and broader skill set. It can differentiate applicants with similar academic or professional backgrounds, highlighting valuable traits like teamwork, leadership, or problem-solving abilities. Historically, resumes focused primarily on formal experience. However, the increasing emphasis on well-rounded individuals has led to the recognition of the value of extracurricular involvement in assessing potential.