Getting involved in extracurricular activities while in college has several important benefits. It allows students to expand their horizons by meeting new people and discovering new interests. Being involved also enhances students' education by providing opportunities to learn outside the classroom and apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. Research shows that students who participate in campus activities earn better grades, are more satisfied, and are more likely to graduate. Involvement can also increase chances for scholarships and lead to a stronger resume with experiences that develop skills valued by employers. Participating in enjoyable activities additionally provides stress relief and a healthier balance. The key is for each student to become involved in some way during their college experience.
1. Getting and staying involved is one of
The Most important Things You Can Do While In College.
“Involvement” is defined as any activity outside the classroom, which enhances and
contributes to student learning (Astin, 1993)
Expand your Horizons
College means discovering new things
about one’s self and developing a global
perspective. Getting involved is an
excellent way to become acquainted with
diverse people, develop friendships, and
discover new interests and
opportunities. Involved students feel
more connected to the university, the
campus, the people, and are more
familiar with the resources the university
has to offer.
Enhance your Education,
Learn new things and advance your
development on all levels: intellectual,
cultural, spiritual, and social. Every
experience you have builds on what you
already know. Being involved is one way
to learn outside of the classroom.
Meeting with others will give you the
opportunity to study, practice problem-
solving strategies, discussing theories,
hear other points of view, and see
different approaches that will lead to
perfecting your own comprehension.
Apply what you have learned in the
classroom to real life scenarios.
Achieve Better Grades According to
the National Survey of Student
Engagement, students who are involved
in campus activities earn better grades,
are more satisfied with their education,
and are more likely to graduate
Increase scholarship opportunities.
Scholarships can play an important part
in paying for college. So be that role
model, show them you are more than just
grades, you are a well-rounded,
outgoing, and a hardworking Stewart of
your community that reflects the values
and purpose of their organization.
Standout Resume You will soon be
applying for internships and jobs. Work
is one way to build a resume, but
employers also recognize that campus
activities help develop leadership,
communication, interpersonal and
managerial skills, while showing that you
are passionate about what you want to
pursue and serious about achieving your
goals. So get involved, network, gain
experience, develop your skills, and
stand out above the rest.
Relief from Stress A healthy dose of fun
is essential for peace of mind and a
balanced life. Involvement in enjoyable
activities will relieve academic stress
and provide a great way to meet new
people.
It does not matter how you are involved,
it only matters that you are!