Post college- extra currics question

[shadowsjc]

I'm finishing up my app for HBS, but I'm sure this question will pop up again in later apps. Part of the application asks for extra curricular activities, both while in school and after college. I've got a lot of extra currics in college, but virtually none outside of college.

I don't want to leave it blank because I know this will be a huge gap in my app. I also don't want to use the optional essay to address this, because there is no good explanation.

So, what steps or strategy should I use for this section? Should I list any recreational hobbies I do? (for example, membership in a gym?)

Basically, how far should I go to make sure that I don't leave this section blank? Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear shadowsjc,

You pose a good question, and you are right that it will be asked by other schools. While it will leave a "gap" in your application to put nothing there, you also want to be thoughtful in what you do include. It certainly looks great to have some meaningful community work or professional organizations, but not everyone will. I would advise you to stick to activities that are significant for you, but try not to stretch it to include hobbies.

Good luck,
Lisa