Son needs some help - First year, he was rejected from every club he applied to (8 to date). He does not yet have a noteworthy resume. What do we do???
Your son can enhance his club application prospects by taking proactive steps to build connections and experience.
Networking Opportunities Encourage him to attend recruiting events and workshops hosted by clubs before application deadlines. Making a positive impression on current members can lead to advocacy during the selection process.
Target Open-Enrollment Clubs Many clubs at UCLA have open enrollment, which allows students to join without a competitive application. He should focus on these groups initially to gain experience and build his resume. The UCLA SOLE office provides a searchable database of over 1,200 clubs, which can help him find suitable options.
Building Experience Since his resume is currently light, he should consider engaging in volunteer work or personal projects that align with his interests. This can demonstrate initiative and passion, which are appealing to club leaders. The UCLA Center for Community Engagement connects students with volunteer opportunities that can enhance their skills and experiences.
Highlighting Skills He should emphasize transferable skills gained from any part-time jobs, coursework, or personal projects, such as teamwork and communication. Clubs appreciate genuine passion, so he should apply to those that truly resonate with him.