For most students, EC activities typically involve Sports, Music, Art, and academically, the AMC (American Mathematics Competitions).

The four EC areas we'll discuss today are:

•           AMC

•           SPORT

•           MUSIC

•           ART 

Students engage in these ECs in various ways, either participating in all four or focusing on 1-2. We'll provide insights on when to make decisions about these activities based on individual characteristics.

Determining the time and effort for each activity and when to evaluate their potential is crucial. Identifying suitable activities tailored to each individual is challenging. We'll guide you on when and how to make decisions about these activities.

However, having a coach or teacher who can accurately assess abilities is essential before making these decisions.

 

AMC

(American Mathematics Competitions AMC- includes AMC 8/10/12 as math contests)

A strong performance in AMC leads to AIME participation and selection for USAJMO (Junior version) and USAMO. Achieving success in USAMO is prestigious and can significantly benefit college applications. From our experience, even students without exceptional math skills can reach AIME. Therefore, many Korean students take on this challenge, and at A-One Institute, we recommend preparation for AMC.

Starting preparation around 5-6 grades for AMC 8, evaluating progress, and planning for AMC 10/12 by 6-7 grades is advisable.

 

Sports

Sports vary significantly based on discipline and require a strategic approach based on physical conditions. Koreans often show promise in sports like swimming, basketball, American football, and judo at a young age. However, as they progress in grades, limitations due to physical factors might result in a decline in performance compared to other ethnicities. Choosing sports based on those where Koreans excel in the Olympics, such as archery, table tennis, and fencing, could be wise.

The timeline varies greatly based on the sport. Accurate assessment by coaches is crucial to set achievable goals.

 

Music

Music, varying with each instrument, often shows potential at a younger age compared to other fields. It's relatively easier to evaluate and make decisions about music-related activities.

Typically starts around 6-7 years old, leading to decisions about continued involvement around 5-6 grades.

Art

Contrary to music, art allows for displaying talent even when started relatively late. For instance, in drawing, students who start in the 9th grade without prior technical expertise sometimes achieve outstanding results through creative thinking. 

Starting art activities in 9th or 10th grade can still yield excellent results.

 

Not engaging in the mentioned EC activities (AMC/Sport/Music/Art) doesn't necessarily make college admission difficult. Creating differentiation through other activities like Olympiads, Writing Competitions, and IT-related competitions is equally valuable.

Remember, not excelling in EC activities doesn't hinder admission to good schools. This discussion serves as a reference; it's not an absolute standard. Every student has unique circumstances in the US college application process. However, as EC activities can set you apart, developing them based on your interests and passions is recommended.