Extracurricular activities not only earn you extra credits but also go a long way in making you popular in school. According to the Montana State University Extension Service, students involved in extracurricular activities are more likely to become leaders, more willing to complete tasks, more willing to voice opinions, and more likely to graduate from high school and have annual incomes of more than $50,000. They are also a good way to explore social, political, and career interests.

Gain experience

Extracurricular activities help students gain experience in a variety of areas that will enhance their future. Through participation in sports, students learn cooperation, teamwork and time management. By serving as an leader in an organisation, students learn responsibility, problem solving and communication. These can also help students discover hidden talents, meet people they might otherwise not encounter, and learn about things outside their own environment.

Choosing activities

But which activities should a student choose? Should they choose activities that use talents they already possess and meet people with similar talents, or should they choose something new and different?

Some students are comfortable with growth while others will feel more comfortable with familiarity. If a student enjoys outdoor activities, s/he may want to look into sports clubs. If a student enjoys reading s/he may also enjoy literary clubs, writing clubs or journalism activities. Extracurricular activities are also a good way to learn appreciation for new and different activities. A student who would ordinarily choose football or cricket might think about exposing themselves to photography or bird watching.

Choosing something outside a student’s comfort zone widens horizons and expands knowledge. Being open to new avenues by joining the computer club or the decorative painter’s club will expose students to new people and new ideas.