Extra-curriculars: Why you should join them
It’s your first year at university and you are trying to find ways of spending your time, making friends, and having fun. Conversely you might be starting a new year, and you have heard about all the extra-curricular activities at your University.
Joining extra-curricular activities creates many benefits for you both mentally and physically. Finding your people at university can be difficult, but start by learning what you love to do in your spare time, and find others who have the same interests!
Where do I start?
Students can join extracurricular activities in various places, including their schools, community centres, and local organizations. Most high schools and middle schools offer a range of clubs, sports teams, and performing arts programs.
Colleges and universities provide additional opportunities, including specialized interest groups and honour societies. Community centres often host after-school programs, sports leagues, and arts classes for students of all ages.
Additionally, local non-profits and charities may have volunteer programs that students can participate in. Online platforms and social media also connect students with virtual clubs and global organizations that cater to their interests, fostering broader engagement.
How to Apply
Students can join extracurricular activities through various means. Schools typically announce available clubs and societies during assemblies, newsletters, or on school websites. Students should attend introductory meetings to learn more about each activity. Many schools provide sign-up sheets or online platforms for registration.
Additionally, students can ask teachers or peers about opportunities that interest them. Participating in open days or school fairs often helps students discover clubs tailored to their passions. Engaging with older students can also provide insights into their experiences. Ultimately, being proactive and expressing interest is key to joining extracurriculars effectively.
There are many extra-curricular activities you can join, Here are ten of the most popular for students:
- Football
- Rugby
- Swimming
- Music (Learn Instruments)
- Gaming
- Film Clubs
- Drama/Theatre
- Art Club
- Debate/Student Politics
- Languages
What Are The Benefits Of Joining Extra-Curriculars?
Students can enjoy all the benefits of joining these extra-curriculars. If they sign up and stick at it they can experience:
- Skill Developments: Students can acquire new skills and improve upon their own abilities. They can learn qualities such as leadership and teamwork, or more specific skills like writing, running, painting,
- Social Connections: Extracurriculars provide a platform for meeting new people, fostering friendships, and building a support network within the school community,
- Stress Relief: Students can blow off any steam by doing something they are passionate about. Stress levels reduce when you are in a more supportive and fostering environment, such as clubs,
- Future Job Opportunities: Employers can see from CV’s and social media the extra-curriculars students take part in. This can increase the chance of being picked out of other candidates, leading to better job opportunities,
- Cultural Exposure: You can join groups you never thought you would join, exposing yourself to the other cultures and ways of life,
- Lifelong Habits: Engagement in extracurriculars can instil lifelong interests and habits, encouraging an active and fulfilling lifestyle beyond school.
