Jackson Rubin, AP Student, NHS Member
Many high school students will be writing a résumé for a job or applying to college soon. Scrambling for extracurricular activities or community service can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.
As an active member in my community, here are my two cents on becoming involved and engaged outside of the classroom. Several years ago as an incoming freshman, I was looking for opportunities to become involved in the community and stand out from my peers. With an interest in politics and our political process, I researched ways I, a high school student, could be of assistance in the community. After some digging, I found an opportunity to intern for a local Congressional campaign. Not many fourteen year olds have the opportunity to do that, do they? From conducting analysis and researching policy to calling voters and prepping for debate, it was something I thoroughly enjoyed―and I have created scores of friendships and connections along the way.
Look for activities you enjoy!
Of course, not all high school students are interested in the aforementioned topic. I encourage those seeking community involvement to find something that they love and will appreciate the time they put into the activity. Interested in the medical field? Look for programs that allow you to explore different fields and specialties of medicine through job shadowing and hands-on experiences. From technology- to animal-lovers, there are a great number of opportunities to consider out there!
Benefits for Having Extracurriculars
Involvement in the community and outside of school is a major factor that colleges and universities look at on an application. Many schools examine prospective students with a “holistic approach,” meaning they focus not only at one’s GPA and test scores but at their “whole person” outside of school. This is why I stress the importance of participating in extracurricular activities and making yourself stand out.
Extracurriculars aren’t solely for college admissions. They are meant to be enlightening and enjoyable. When hunting for opportunities, make sure you will appreciate and get something out of the work or activities that you will be participating in. Most importantly, extracurriculars should be fun and worth-while. Make sure you enjoy and relish the time you are spending. Learn new things, meet like-minded people, and have fun!
-Comment below if you are searching for extracurricular activities. What are you interested in? If you are already involved in the community, what have you learned and how has it made you stand out from your peers?-
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