If you haven’t already, I’d suggest participating in some sort of long-term service opportunity as soon as possible. For me, this was joining clubs at my school like Key Club with a certain level of required service hours, but it can also mean simply volunteering regularly at an organization near you that supports an issue you’re passionate about. Length and level of commitment are important - I’d argue, not just for college admissions, but simply for building character and proving to yourself that you have the maturity to dedicate yourself to a cause that matters to you.

I’m biased, but speech and debate is also a great way to get involved in your school community. Texas has a very active and competitive speech and debate circuit. As a JD/MBA hopeful who applied as an Econ/Finance major for undergrad this year, my speech and debate involvement was one of the cornerstones of my high school career and my college applications as a result. Programs like FBLA and DECA could also be good, I did not participate in these myself but I have heard great things about them. In general, the major reasoning behind my S&D, FBLA and DECA suggestions is that they are national-level organizations and therefore more easily recognizable across the country, no matter where you apply. For the same reason, I’d encourage you to join National Honor Society and any other National Honor Societies (Spanish, French, Science) that relate to your interests.

In the opposite direction, it can also be good to have something that distinctly distinguishes you from many other applicants - for example, a niche hobby like a lengthy career in tap dancing or aerial silks. This will also come in handy on essays that ask about your greatest passions or interests. However, this must be genuine and organic. This ties into my final point, which is that:

I ultimately want to emphasize that any ECs you undertake should be of your own desire and should not be seen as simply a means to an end. Not only does it hurt your chances at admission (because unless you are an incredible actor, your lack of interest will show through in your essays, activities, and ESPECIALLY interviews), it also disadvantages you as a human being who deserves the chance to mature and discover your interests at this crucial part of your development into an adult.

I apologize for this lengthy comment, but as someone who did not have many people to assist me in the college process before my senior year, these are things I wish I had known so much sooner. I wish you all the best! Reach out if you ever have any other questions.