The Value of Extracurricular Activities
Do extracurricular activities add value to a student’s education? Probably in many more ways than one may think. Homework, tests, projects, and speeches can become monotonous and may bore some students. Extracurricular activities allow students to “let loose” in a way, express themselves, and display their passion for particular fields. They encourage creativity, hard work, dedication, and involvement.
In what ways do extracurricular activities enhance a student’s education?
Adding valuable skills and experience
There are certain things one can learn in the classroom, and certain things they can not. Activities such as volunteering, or working give students the chance to explore the real world, and apply things they have learned. Being part of a group or function that completes projects within a community is experience that cannot be attained simply by sitting in a classroom. Students learn how to plan, manage time, and be persistent. They also have incentives to perform well if they stay involved.
Any extracurricular activity, from band, to Varsity football requires one to be a part of a team. It is hard to place value on the feeling that a student belongs, carries team spirit with them, has the trust of peers, and understands what it takes to be an asset to a team. Students also learn how to act in different social environments. They learn what is acceptable and what is not. Students will have the opportunity to meet people that can influence them in a positive way, or become a great reference down the road.
Anything a student can do to distinguish himself from another student will improve his chances of college admission. However, participating in activities that parallel a student’s interests and ambitions is what will really help impress college admissions counsels. Extracurricular activities provide students with the opportunity to showcase their skills, and share what they are passionate about. Extracurriculars should display dedication to each activity (make an impact, as opposed to just showing up), well-rounded experience, hands-on experience, and an area of expertise. Also, college is a huge time investment, and takes a lot of effort. Proving that a student has worked hard in high school indicates they will work hard if accepted. In short, colleges want unique students, with unique skills and experiences. Extra-curricular activities can equip students with both.
Throwing the winning touchdown, helping someone in need, hitting every note perfectly during a band performance; What do all of these have in common? All of these activities show a student that they can succeed, and allows them to look back on what it took to get there. From as early as kindergarten, until after college, people often times suffer from a lack of confidence and self-esteem. When one’s hard work pays off and they succeed at a particular activity, something special happens. That person takes that sense of accomplishment back to school or work, and applies it to everything they do. Studies show that students who participate in extracurricular activities perform better in the classroom. Many clubs and sports also require that a student has a certain gpa to participate. This provides extra incentive for a student to perform better.
Distraction from undesirable behavior
Unfortunately, school presents students with choices that are tough to make, and behavior that is easy to adopt. Drinking, using drugs, and other dangerous behaviors are things that successful students must avoid. Often times behavior develops because the student has too much time. Extracurricular activities require students to devote time and effort, helping to keep them from becoming involved with the wrong crowd. Not only can students avoid bad choices, but activities such as sports promote a healthy lifestyle.
A variety of extracurricular activities exist, allowing students to develop valuable skills, as well as the opportunity to discover more about their own interests.
Extracurricular activities include:
- Volunteer/Community service
- Trips Abroad
Consider extracurricular activities as an investment that builds valuable skills, teaches important lessons, and helps improves the chances of attending a desirable college. They provide students with the ability to turn their focus from homework, and tests, into energy that develops character. There are many different ways students can be involved, inside or outside of school.
If you are considering college, need help deciding what activities to pursue, or are struggling with any aspect of school, call the Austin Tutors of Concepts Mastery today at 512-767-5323 or email email@example.com