It's that time of year again!

It's the start of a new semester and you're looking to change things up. You decide you want to try a new extracurricular activity. But, you might be feeling like this:

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Not to worry! Keep in mind that choosing extracurricular activities is all about getting the most out of your time, so have fun with it!

Know Your Options

Before you start choosing an activity, it's important to know what's out there.

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To find out what's available in your school and/or community, keep an eye out for:

  • Posters and bulletin boards

  • School announcements

  • School and community newsletters

  • Community websites

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Most schools also have club fairs where you can talk to members of different clubs and groups to learn more about what they do!

What Are Your Interests?

After finding out what's available, you may still be stuck with a long list of potential activities.

Narrow it down by asking yourself:

  • What do I enjoy doing in my spare time?

  • What makes me feel happy and fulfilled?

  • What do I hope to do in the future?

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For example, if you enjoy teaching and helping others, you might join a peer tutoring group.

Remember: If you can't find what you're looking for, you can always start your own club or group! There will definitely be others with the same interests who would want to join.

Quiz

Bob is looking for a new extracurricular activity. He enjoys writing in his free time. His dream job is to be a journalist. Which activity is the best fit?

Try Something New

Maybe you want to take this opportunity to challenge yourself! Extracurricular activities are also a great place to try new things.

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Ask yourself:

  • What's something I always wanted to try but didn't have the chance to?

  • What's something new that I want to learn?

  • What's something that I want to get better at?

For example, if you struggle with public speaking, joining a debate club could help you practice and improve.

Who knows? You might find something new that you love!

Check Your Schedule

While extracurricular activities are important, you don't want to end up like this:

Two buttons meme, deciding between extracurriculars and other commitments.

When choosing a new activity, make sure you have the time for it. Avoid overloading your schedule and stressing yourself out!

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Having trouble finding the time for extracurriculars?

You might be doing more than you think! For example, if you plan to work at a part-time job after school, you may count that as an extracurricular.

Quiz

Sara didn't have time to join clubs this year because she was busy working part-time and looking after her siblings. She's stuck on what to write about in the extracurriculars section of her college application. What should she do?

Take Action

Extracurricular activities can help make your school experience a memorable one. Use these steps to find one that fits you!

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