EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extracurricular Activities are any activity, outside of the classroom, that you can be actively and productively involved in. Below you will find some different types of extracurriculars that you can participate in at your school or in your community!
TYPES
ACADEMIC CLUBS
Do you have a passion for a particular subject? Whether it’s a science, art or math, you can find an academic club at your local school that can fuel your interest.
SPORTS
Do you enjoy watching or playing a particular sport? Check out your school sports teams and clubs, intramural clubs or a local team for any open spots!
EMPLOYMENT
If you love to work, you can start early and find what your passions are by applying to internships or getting into the workforce! For more information on how you can start, click here.
HOBBIES
Outside of school, work and sports, what is it that you love doing? Whatever it may be - whether it is blogging, filming, hiking or photography - if you have an interest and passion for it, you have a hobby!
VOLUNTEERING
You can find ways to get involved in your community; whether that is by joining religious missionaries, feeding the homeless, or simply volunteering at local charitable events.
Familial Responsibilities:
If you are not able to engage activities outside of school due to extensive family obligations, it is important to let colleges know about this.
To learn more about the different types of extracurriculars are available check out the resources below:
WHY SHOULD YOU START?
Extracurriculars can benefit you in a number of ways. By engaging in something other than schoolwork, you can find something that you are passionate about and even give you direction in terms of what you want to become or do in the future.
It’s also a huge bonus for the College Application process! Through extracurricular activities, you can show colleges what you are passionate about and demonstrate your strengths; whether that may be leadership, time management or dedication.
If you are a parent and would like to know more check out the CollegeBoard webpage for more details.
If you are a student and would like to know more about the benefits of participating in extracurricular activities check out the following resources:
HOW TO GET STARTED:
Think about what interests you:
Review the list of possible extracurricular activities that are out there and determine which ones interests you.
Ask your teachers, peers and high school counselors for opportunities.
Remember, sports are not the only extracurricular activity that you can get involved in, there are numerous opportunities. If you are unsure about what’s available, ask the people around you or look online for local opportunities.
Find the time in your schedule:
Extracurriculars look great on your application but only if you show that you have dedicated your time to it. Find which extracurriculars fit your interest and your schedule. Remember, if you have family obligations that take up most of your time (such as working to support your family, taking care of younger siblings), let colleges/employers know this when you are applying. College admission officials take these situations into positive consideration when reviewing your applications.
Keep a track record:
Make sure when you get involved you keep a record of what you did, how long you did and what were the things you learned or gained from these experiences. This will help you later on in the college application process.
Check out these links for more information: