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

19 Nov 2025 • 7 min • EN
7 min
00:00
07:12
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Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. 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."

From "Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship"

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