After talking with some Penn State students who served as THON Captains, they shared some do’s and don’ts that led to their success in their THON committees. Some captains served for multiple years, while others are getting ready for their second year as a THON captain. Here are their suggestions for folks thinking of applying:

DO: Write At Least A Paragraph

Each open-ended question is an opportunity to demonstrate your perspective, experiences, and commitment. Strong applications go beyond surface-level answers that clearly communicate ideas, as well as showing off your personality.

Taking the time to fully answer each question shows both effort and respect for the process. That being said, make sure you don’t write an entire novel, but don’t answer like you simply want it to be out of the way.

DO: Come Put-Together For Your Interview

Showing up to any interview in a put-together fashion is important. This doesn’t mean that you need to show up in business attire with a full suit and all, but you should not show up in sweats and baggy clothing.

Showing up casual, or in interview attire, is a way to show that you care and want to put your best foot forward. This also makes a good impression on the director, as it may set you apart from others.

DO: Research & Seek Advice

Meeting with current or former captains can provide a valuable perspective on the responsibilities and the expectations of each role. This research not only strengthens your application but also helps you determine where you would be the best fit.

Being informed demonstrates initiative and genuine interest. It also shows off your drive and discipline, which are both necessary traits for THON captains.

DO: Apply For More Than One Committee

THON offers a wide range of committees and leadership opportunities. Applying to more than one position shows flexibility and a broader commitment to the organization’s mission, rather than just wanting to get another notch for your resume.

It also increases your chances of finding a role that aligns with your strengths. A committee you may feel aligned with can change once you meet with another.

DO: Share Previous Experiences With THON

Discussing your involvement in THON should go beyond listing committees or roles. Instead, focus on the experiences that shaped your understanding of the organization and its mission. Explain why you THON.

Moments of connection and growth can give valuable insight into you, as well as how you engage with THON and what you would bring to a captain position.

DON’T: Only List Leadership Roles

Simply naming leadership roles or involvement does not fully show off why you would make an impact. Strong applications explain what those experiences meant, what you contributed, and what you learned.

Context and reflection will also go a long way. Both of those allow you to transform a list of accomplishments into a narrative, which shows off your story.

DON’T: Write What You Think The Directors Want To Hear

Applications that feel overly rehearsed or impersonal can be easy to recognize. Anyone can write a corporate cookie-cutter application, but that doesn’t make them automatically fit for the role.

Writing just to meet perceived expectations often takes away what makes you.. you. Your voice and perspective are what make your application memorable, so it is important to let them come through naturally.

DON’T: Apply Solely For Fun

While THON does foster community and connection, the captain role carries significant responsibility. Framing your interest around enjoyment alone can overlook the deeper purpose of THON and the meaning of FTK.

DON’T: Be Overly Formal

Staying relaxed during your interview may sound hard, but it’s the best way to show off who you are. This doesn’t mean to show up just after rolling out of bed, but allowing yourself to be true to you is something that directors appreciate.

DON’T: Wing It

Show up to your interview prepared. This means practicing your answers and any other basic interview questions. Make sure you have your outfit and any necessary things to showcase your skills to the directors. Come with a few questions in mind and make sure that you understand what the position is beyond the surface.

The THON captain application process is not about presenting a perfect version of yourself, but rather a genuine and thoughtful one. By approaching each step with intention and authenticity, you’ll stand out in a meaningful way.

Good luck to all future THON captains!