Do colleges like to see combat sports on applications?

Question

Boxing or MMA, for example. Boxing is the one for this question. Would 4-5 years of experience, including fights, be a good thing? I imagine the administration frowning on the combat aspect and the whole head injury thing, even if the person is fine. Is it better left unsaid for all schools, or just the better ones?

Answer 1

Unless you were trying out for the school's boxing team but if you are not doing that why would you include that on your application.  

Answer 2

I think, in general, colleges regard participation in extracurricular activities as a positive.  Persisting in training for 4 to 5 years shows that you have perseverance and self-discipline and you will need perseverance and self-discipline to get through college and succeed in your chosen field.  Also, I think there is a value in being honest with the colleges (and with people in general).  After all, if a particular college is so down on boxing, maybe you don't belong there.  You need to find a good match, a place where the people will appreciate your strengths and personal qualities.  I'm sure there are colleges where the personnel will appreciate the time and effort you have devoted to this sport.

Answer 3

If you hung with boxing for 4-5 years, you have the mental stength handle anything they can throw at you in college. I'd include it. It's an Olympic Sport. You might write your essay about that, if they require one. It would make you stand out.  

Answer 4

If it's boxing I would say you should include it. It's an activity that requires discipline, focus and hard work. Also would be good to talk about during any interview.

If a school wouldn't want a student who was a boxer then I wouldn't even bother applying there.