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1876: Dangerous Ideas: College Extracurriculars Are Meaningless by Cal Newport on Academic Purpose

1876: Dangerous Ideas: College Extracurriculars Are Meaningless by Cal Newport on Academic Purpose

Update: 2025-11-19
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Episode 1876:

Cal Newport challenges the conventional wisdom that piling on college extracurriculars boosts success, arguing instead that most are a poor return on time and energy. He advocates for a minimalist approach focused on doing fewer activities but with deeper commitment and standout results, creating what he calls a "remarkable" profile that truly matters.

Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2008/07/23/dangerous-ideas-college-extracurriculars-are-meaningless/

Quotes to ponder:

"To stand out, do fewer things, but do them better than anyone else."

"Starting a successful non-profit is remarkable."

"Extracurricular activities are not, in and of themselves, impressive."

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1876: Dangerous Ideas: College Extracurriculars Are Meaningless by Cal Newport on Academic Purpose

1876: Dangerous Ideas: College Extracurriculars Are Meaningless by Cal Newport on Academic Purpose

Cal Newport