Many hear the word “extracurricular” and want nothing to do with it. They claim they do not have time, or that they do not want to acquire more responsibility, or even that they do not know people in certain clubs.
As a freshmen, I was one of these people.
Joining a club can be scary. There are logistics insiders know, many people are already good friends, and any new thing can cause someone to feel nervous. If I were to offer any advice to students who are on the verge of joining a club; do it.
School can be treacherous with the stress of assessments, quizzes, standardized tests, along with having a social life, family time and a job. Because of this mayhem, many automatically draw the conclusion that they do not have time for extracurriculars. Although, some clubs can require tedious work, not all will extracurriculars will drain students of their precious time.
Extracurriculars serve as a distraction from the burden of school. Sure, you may have a huge Algebra test at the end of the week, but for the time being you are worried about what piece to work on in art club. Sure, you may have to work a five hour shift both Saturday and Sunday, but for the time being the you are focused on winning your case for Mock Trial. Sure, standardized test scores are getting released in a few days, but you are focused on the exciting trip you are taking at the end of the week with Chemistry club. With the addition of extracurriculars, school does not become easier, but it does become more enjoyable.
Most schools offer clubs such as the debate team, newspaper, yearbook, and robotics. Simply find something that falls in your area of interest and dive right in. If you care about what goes on in different countries and like to debate, join a club like Model United Nations. If you like to perform and appreciate drama, join the school theatre department. If you care about the environment and want change in your community, join the green team. Joining clubs can alter your college experience.
Say you are passionate about a certain subject, but there is no place for you to express yourself. That could be a disappointment, but not all hope should be lost. Someone could most definitely start their own club. My high school did not have a Speech and Debate team, so I and another student started one up. It can be somewhat nerve wracking because all of the responsibility falls on you, but if a club you would love to participate in is unavailable; start one of your own. Not only will you have the satisfaction/ excitement of starting a new club, you will have the satisfaction/ excitement of being in the club.
I am currently a junior, which means my days of high school are going to be over before I know it. If I have any advice to offer to underclassmen it is to get involved. Yes, school clubs may not seem like the coolest thing to do, but they sure make high school a totally different experience.
