Clubs and Groups

Clubs and Activities Are Important

You're up early to get to school on time, to math, science, social studies, and other classes and have homework to do. So, why is it important to participate in extracurricular clubs, sports, or community groups?

Participating in after-school activities reveal a great deal about your interests, your readiness for responsibility, and demonstrate your ability to:

• Make a meaningful contribution to something

• Maintain a commitment

• Manage your time and priorities

• Make new friends

You'll meet people who have similar interests to yours. You may also meet people from different backgrounds who you may not have the opportunity to interact with before.

• Build respect and learn teamwork

Teamwork and respect are two important life-skills that can carry you through life. By joining clubs or teams, you'll learn to work together towards a common goal, learn respect for coaches, leaders, yourself, and one another.

• Gain self-confidence

Completing a special project, playing a difficult piece of music, or being a valuable member of a team can help you gain self-esteem. Perhaps you're not as academically talented as some other students at school; by participating in a club or other activity, you have the opportunity to excel in something you enjoy and are good at.

• Relieve stress

Many clubs and activities take place in a relaxed environment, so you have a chance to unwind and do things you like after a busy day at school.

• Learn real-world skills

Many extracurricular activities provide a chance to learn real-world skills. Joining the school yearbook gives you experience at graphic design, photography, and meeting timelines; the Student Council teaches management and good citizenship skills; the Interact Club helps develop teamwork and community involvement.

• Develop time management skills

Juggling school, homework, and family life can be challenging. Joining clubs and other activities helps you learn the importance of planning and prioritizing.

• Avoid risky behaviors

Studies show that students who participate in after-school activities have greater expectations for the future and were more interested in school than their peers. Having a greater sense of purpose and more self-esteem gives you a reason to say "no" to risky behaviors. Students who participate in after-school or community activities are more likely to succeed at school.