High School Activities That Lead to Success in Later Life
Students are constantly taught that those with the highest grade-point average and test scores will get into the best colleges to prepare them for the most impressive careers. While it's true that universities base acceptance of students on grades and standardized tests, success in life involves much more than academic skills. Good grades and high test scores are important, but extracurricular activities that develop social skills lead to success in later life.
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Fine Arts
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High school students who develop social skills learned by participating in extracurricular activities earn more money and complete higher levels of education, according to studies. Participation in high school activities such as music, art and drama help students improve social skills and work habits, including getting along with others, conversational and listening skills, being punctual, disciplined and completing tasks.
Student Government, Committees and Clubs
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High school membership in clubs, committees, or as part of student government teach students behavior that will bring them success for years beyond graduation. They foster and enhance interest and participation in something meaningful that requires making a commitment and sticking to it. Students learn teamwork, time management, setting priorities, decision making, and how to deal with the consequences of their choices. They learn to consider the effects of their decisions on others and on the world around them. This gives them the opportunity to practice what they have learned in the classroom and helps them develop skills and set goals.
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Sports
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According to University of Northern Iowa researchers, participation in high school sports and other activities positively affects physical and mental health, satisfaction, civic involvement, education, employment and finances. Students involved in sports tend to receive positive attention from coaches and teachers. They are taught teamwork, rules of the game, and they bond with teammates, They learn self-discipline, control and physical fitness. Experiences during participation in sports show high school students how to act in future work and social situations.
Community Service
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Many high schools suggest that students become involved in volunteer activities. Numerous potential activities are available to suit all interests. Many students collect food for local individuals in need, provide physical labor for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, or volunteer at local animal shelters. Some form song and dance troupes to perform for senior citizen groups, at nursing homes and for veteran organizations, while others visit hospital patients and run errands for shut-ins. Students can offer child care services, coach little league teams, or run the computer at local charitable organizations. All of these activities build social skills that lead to future successful interactions in work, social and personal relationships.
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References
- Science Daily: Social Skills, Extracurricular Activities In High School Pay Off Later In Life
- College Board: Extracurricular Activities
- Radio Iowa: Research finds some link between athletics and future success
- University of Minnesota LA 84 Foundation: High School Sports Participation and Educational Attainment
Resources
- Photo Credit football practice image by Kevin Chesson from Fotolia.com
