The importance of a student's Grade Point Average (GPA) cannot be understated. This measure of a student's academic performance is an important factor when he or she decides to apply to a university. It is, however, not the only consideration. One of the most important factors universities look at is the student's extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities are simply the work students do outside his or her academic studies. These activities can include joining campus groups or clubs; community involvement, organizing or participating in social or politically-themed events, or fundraising for a cause important to that student. Extracurricular activities take many forms, and are important to achieving the student's academic goals.
One of the easiest ways to get involved in extracurricular activities is to simply join a campus club. There are many clubs on campus that might interest students. To find a list of the clubs your high school or college has to offer, go to the Associated Student Union, a student government organization, to ask for a list. Additionally, nearly every department has a club associated with it. For instance, the Psychology Department probably has a psychology club. The Engineering Department will also have a club or two. The same goes for Math and English Departments, but there are many more available to choose from.
Community involvement is another good way to show university officials your extracurricular activities. There are countless volunteer opportunities students can engage in, which help both the community and the student. Working with the homeless, or disabled residents of the community looks good on a college application. Getting politically involved with a cause or a specific political candidate can also show university officials your commitment to improving your life, and the lives of others. The more a student is involved in extracurricular activities, the better.
