Joining an extracurricular activity is great for many reasons: you can grow a talent or skill, make new friends, build your college resume, and enjoy your free time. Some allow you to get physical exercise, while others involve creativity or serving those in need. Here are some ideas on how to find activities you may enjoy.
- School Opportunities: You school most likely offers a variety of activities, ranging from artistic options (band, choir, art club, musical, drama), athletic teams (basketball, volleyball, cross country, bowling, soccer, softball, cheerleading, dance squad, etc.), student government, academic and special interest clubs (debate, forensics, honors societies, math competition team, STEM club, etc) and service and advocacy groups (local volunteer opportunities, religious clubs, students against drugs, students fighting cancer, etc.). You can seek these out by attending involvement fairs at the beginning of the semester, asking upperclassmen about activities they do, talking to a guidance counselor or athletic director about opportunities, and joining new things with friends.
- Church Opportunities: Many churches offer youth groups for teenagers that involve social outings, praise and worship events, service opportunities, mission trips, and other fun activities. Youth groups are a great way to meet people that share a lot in common with you. Many churches also have choirs, bands, CYO sports teams, and other ministries teens may be able to join. Check your weekly bulletin or ask your priest/pastor/religious leader about opportunities for you to get involved.
- Community Opportunities: Your local library or community center may host events for teens, so check their website or bulletin board for offerings. Many communities also offer sports teams, which may be a good way to play a sport that isn’t as competitive or time-consuming as your high school’s varsity team.
- Part time jobs and volunteering: Another way to meet new friends and potentially earn money or service hours is to get a part-time job. Babysitting, pet care, and tutoring are flexible opportunities. Many ice cream stores, community pools, casual restaurants, and clothing stores may be interested in hiring teens. Soup kitchens, animal shelters, pregnancy resource centers, and other charitable organizations may be in need of volunteers, so call local places if you’d like to get involved.
There are so many opportunities to get involved and meet new friends. From school clubs to community opportunities, don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new. You may find a new activity you love or make a lasting group of friends with shared interests. When joining activities or applying for jobs, make sure that adults involved are safe. If you ever feel uncomfortable with a coach, boss, or activity leader, tell a trusted adult. Get involved, be safe, and have fun.