MSU's class of 2007 isn't just book-smart, according to information gathered by the organization that conducts ACT tests.

Upon MSU's request, ACT Inc. obtained information about the freshman class's high school extracurricular activities.

The class of about 7,000 students boasts a wide array of interests, including holding part-time jobs, working as high school student government officials and receiving recognition for athletic talents.

Ed Colby, spokesman for the Iowa City, Iowa, company, said the organization collects information about student activity from the ACT registration form, gathered weeks before students take the test.

"It's a way for us to provide more information to colleges about students, so they get a better sense of what their students are like," Colby said.

According to ACT Inc., 36 percent of MSU's freshman class performed in some type of musical group, 20 percent worked on a high school newspaper or yearbook, 71 percent held a part-time job and 19 percent were elected to one or more student offices.

Some university officials said participation in extracurricular activities can set students apart from other college applicants.

"It's one of many factors, but certainly extraordinary talents and contributions are taken into consideration," said Pamela Horne, MSU's assistant to the provost for enrollment management and director of admissions. "We have an extremely talented group of students, with a wide range of experiences that they bring to MSU."

Horne said about 25,000 applicants were considered for admission in 2003. Students accepted to MSU came from 1,152 high schools, 48 states and 44 countries.

The data, Horne said, obtained by MSU will be lumped together with the incoming freshmen class's ACT scores. Information on the scores are not yet available for the public, she said. This way, students will be looked at as more than facts and figures, she said.

General business administration and pre-law freshman Michael Sanford said extracurricular activities should be a big part of the college admissions process.

"For MSU, it means dedication when reviewing for your admissions application," he said.

But some students said universities shouldn't rely heavily on student interests.

"Extracurricular activities are important because it shows students have good time-management skills," Latin senior Crystle Price said. "I don't think your admission should depend on it."