The Guide to Passion Projects

In high school, we’re often told that the key to getting into college is having a passion project—easy! But, after that, no one really says what to do or how to prepare one. It can feel overwhelming and, sometimes, unnecessary. But, we can fix that by taking you through every step of the way, and using Planning Goose (of course) as an example.

1. Figure out your ‘what’ and ‘why’

Before doing anything else, take a second to really assess yourself. What do you like doing? What are some things that you’re particularly good at? How could you help your community? Brainstorm ideas that combine your interests with positive impacts. Then, after that, make sure your ideas have a clear ‘why’ (and, no, the answer is not “to get into college”). Figure out what’s motivating you to embark on this journey—whether big or small—and make sure you’re truly committed.

Example:

What is Planning Goose? A website designed to give students access to free resources, planners, and other academic tools and tips for success.

Why does Planning Goose exist? To make it easier for students to excel at school and ‘clean up’ their academic lives.

2. Start planning

Once you’ve picked an idea, do all of the logistical things. How long are you going to spend on this? Where is this project happening? How much money do you need to spend? Are supplies required? Keep all of this in mind as you create this passion project. Remember, it has to be feasible, and if there’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding it, maybe pick another idea.

Example:

We planned out our first Tools and Blog posts before launching to create a steady ground for our first few weeks.

3. Create resources & marketing

After the planning stage, it’s time to get started! Create a website, post pictures on Instagram, or develop some sort of central hub to house all of your information. If people can’t see everything easily, they’ll just give up looking, so try to make your project as digitally accessible as possible. Then, spread the word! Repost your project’s Instagram stories on your own account, spread the word to your friends, and even contact higher-up administrators at your school to reach a larger audience.

Example:

Planning Goose is based on a website, but our primary marketing is through Instagram. Outside of that, our founder Jonah has shared this website with friends, teachers, and other people who it might benefit.

4. Host events and/or stay consistent

Many passion projects, especially those that are donation based, have some sort of event that brings people closer together. This way, a supporter base can be created and you can rely on different people. But, if your project doesn’t necessitate a fancy gathering, just stay consistent! Make sure you’re working on this project when you can, and don’t let it only be important to you a few times every year. By the same token, make sure your project has measureable impact. Colleges won’t “take your word for it,” but they will read statistics you share with them or reports of what you did.

Example:

Since our launch in August 2025, we have uploaded a new digital resource and created a new Blog post every week. Our founder, Jonah, also plans on sharing different website metrics and analytics with colleges when he applies.

5. Final tips - be passionate!

• Standing out is important, but so is your enjoyment of the project. Colleges would much rather see you excited about the slightly more generic project you’re doing than see you feeling meh about a project that seems unique, but is draining. Do something that you’re actually passionate about. It’s a passion project! It should be excited to you and leave a positive mark on those who it impacts.

• Everyone doesn’t need a passion project. If you’re overwhelmed, stressed, and thinking that a passion project is just too much for you, then don’t do one. Like we said above, if you’re not passionate about your project, then how can anyone else be? If it’s only going to stress you out and you can’t feel excited about it, then don’t do one.

• You don’t need to cure cancer. Plenty of people do outrageous things for their passion projects but don’t feel a connection to it. Do something that’s best for you and has true impact (whether big or small). Be the change you wish to see in the world, not what your parents want or what you think a dream college is looking out for.

Passion projects don’t have to be stressful and scary. They can be fun ways to showcase your talents, and can happen to help you stand out to colleges. It’s up to you to make change and develop something you’re proud of. And, if you liked this, check out our other posts below or in the Blog page.