Importance of Extra Curricular Activities for Students

Everyone talks about academic performance, whether it’s your parents, class teacher, tution teacher, etc. They are not wrong, academic performance is very important and every student must focus on getting good academic grades.

But what about extra curricular activities? Are they not important? Why we don’t talk much about it? Extracurricular activities are very important because they play a huge role in shaping the well rounded and capable individuals. We often neglect the importance of extra curricular activities.

Take extracurricular activities serious and participate in them. Play a sport, join a debate team, volunteer at events, participate in music, explore your interests and develop skills beyond academics.

I always say one thing on this website “Too much of anything is always bad and academics is no exception”. Yes academics is very important but you can’t just neglect the importance of extracurricular activities.

Why Extracurricular Activities are Important for Students?

Improvement in Academic Performance

Yes, it’s true. It is found that students who are involved in extracurricular activities generally perform good and earn higher grades in academics as well.

The effect of extracurricular activities on academics has been studies since 1930s and it’s been found that Students who participate frequently in extracurricular activities tend to have higher grades, better test scores, and more positive educational experiences in general.

It also matters what type of extracurricular activity you are doing. For example, if are participating in athletic clubs then there are chances to have increased math and science and literacy scores.

Know More: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1230758.pdf

Lower Dropout Rates

A variety of extracurricular activities are offered specially in high schools such as music, academic clubs, and sports. I many studies it is found that the Participation in extracurricular activities may increase student attachment and sense of engagement to their school, which further decreases the chances of school failure and dropping out.

Better College Admission Chances

A variety of factors are taken into consideration when it comes to college admissions such as High school grades, Positive character attributes, Essay or writing sample, Counselor recommendation, Extracurricular involvement, etc.

Extracurricular involvement is one of the top factors for college admission.

So pay attention to the Extracurricular activities.

Check the image below to see different type of factors that contributes in the College Admission

Improved Mental Health

Mental health is most important specially in today’s time. Participation in extracurriculars activities keep you energized, motivated, focused, and there is a higher level of life satisfaction.

Anxiety and depression automatically decrease once you’re satisfied with your life. So spend less time on screen and engage in extracurriculars activities.

Students who engage in extracurriculars activities are less likely to to engage in recreational screen-based activities i.e. tv, mobile, etc.

Stronger Leadership and Social Skills

Many studies showed that the participation in Extracurricular activities allow students to develop the qualities of a leader and improved social interaction skills.

There is a reason why most of the higher education institutions encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities because it increases the community leadership that advances positive social change.

Source: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1367276.pdf

Which Extracurricular Activity to Choose?

Now comes the main part i.e. choosing the right extracurricular activity. Don’t just choose an activity just everyone is doing that. Choose an activity depending on your interests, goals, personality, and available time.

Here is how you can choose an activity as per your area of interest and passion:

Do you love performing arts? Then go for drams, music, dance, etc.

If you have love to help other people then go for community service, Volunteer clubs, etc.

Do you have leadership qualities? If yes then go for Student council, leadership programs.

If you like Athletics then go for a sports team or fitness club.

For tech savy students there is an option to join Robotics, coding, photography, or art clubs.

If you have a passion for reading or writing then consider joining book clubs, participate in writing competitions, etc.

So this is how you can choose an extracurricular activity that’s best for you.

If you are not sure about anything then simple Explore. Yes, try out different things until you find the one that you absolutely love.

Choosing the right extracurricular activity is no rocket science, all you need to do is just see in yourself and figure out what you like the most. If you can’t figure out anything then just explore different activities.

Final Thoughts

We often do the mistake of considering Extracurricular activities as “extra”, but they are very important for an overall development of students. These activities are not just stress buster or fun but they contribute to academic success, personal growth, mental wellness, etc. It is found in various studies that students who actively participate in Extracurricular activities tend to be more confident, engaged, and prepared for life beyond school.

All parents and teachers who are reading this post are advised to encourage students to participate in Extracurricular activities as per their interest and passion. You have to go beyond academics in order to have skills that will pay you for the entire life.