Participation in Extracurricular Activities in Schools
For many students, participating in extracurricular activities is what keeps them excited about school. Not only do extracurricular activities allow students to build positive relationships, these activities also provide a way to pursue unique interests while developing a spirit of cooperation with others. Randy Brown, Ph.D., author of "Extracurricular Activity: How Does Participation Encourage Positive Youth Development?" reports that "participation in extracurricular activities could be one protective factor that might prevent youth from being involved in problem behavior." In addition to being fun, extracurricular activities bring many positive benefits.
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Autonomy and Self Esteem
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Develop independence and a strong sense of self. Join a club or team to challenge yourself, to set and reach goals, and to develop skills that can be improved over time. Setting goals will test your resolve and reveal a can-do spirit.
Teamwork
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Build social skills by working with others. By sharing common goals and interests, you will build friendships that can last a lifetime. Working as part of a team and being accountable to one another builds trust.
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Mental and Physical Fitness
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Participating in a club or sports team involves effective problem solving, both on your own and as part of a group. Playing sports builds both psychological and physical strength.
Time Management
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Learn time management skills. Scheduling regular practice is a skill that requires the ability to prioritize responsibilities. Show up on time for a game or meeting to demonstrate that you honor your commitments and respect those who are counting on you.
Learn Leadership
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Step up and become captain or president, a role in which you challenge yourself and others. During an interview conducted by Peter Ciciora of the "News Bureau of the University of Illinois," interviewee Christy Lleras states, "Leadership now is not an individual thing, it's how well you get along in a team and get people organized."
Improve Grades
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Motivate yourself to succeed in school and life. Most extracurricular involvement builds mental stamina and a strong work ethic, the same skills needed to succeed in life. Using this mental advantage while studying can help you earn higher grades.
Types of Activities
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Pursue your interests. Sign up for community service clubs if you like to help others. Immerse yourself in your favorite language and culture in a French or Spanish club. Develop game skills in a chess club or sports skills by joining a track, tennis or swim team.
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- Photo Credit marching band image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com
