I’ve run a number of 10ks and half-marathons, and I always finish somewhere in the middle of the pack, comfortably sandwiched between those looking to better their previous (fast) times and those who are plodding along and just hoping to finish at some point.

And I’ve noticed that in every race, a cadre of those faster finishers return to the sidelines after their race and hang around to cheer on those people like me who are still chugging our way to finish-line glory. It’s a really selfless, generous act that makes a difference to those who benefit from it. I know their cheers always seem to lift my nowhere-near-Olympic pace a bit in that final stretch.

One of the best gifts you can give someone is to cheer them on, to be genuinely happy and enthusiastic for them even when you don’t personally benefit from their victory or success. People appreciate and remember that kind of support. And they’ll be more likely to give it back in the future.

Every college acceptance, every improved grade, every activity, success, conquered fear or even just valiant attempt—they’re all opportunities for you to cheer someone on.

And while this shouldn’t be your reason to do this, it’s also the kind of thing that shows teachers and counselors that you’re a “great kid“—a phrase that always resonates well in a letter of recommendation.