The importance of getting involved in school

The importance of getting involved in school

Whitney Robbins, Editor

High school can, understandably, be very stressful. Freshmen are entering into a big unknown building; sophomores are focusing more on their pathways; juniors are taking tests that will impact their futures, and seniors are applying for colleges. It’s a huge headache. Despite this, high school is not such a bad place. There are so many fun things you can get involved in: sports, theater and other clubs, National Honor Society, and so on. Getting involved can be beneficial in many ways.

Getting involved in school can help students discover new interests, which can lead to new hobbies or even career opportunities. Classes are a great example of this, which is a bit ironic considering you’re getting involved to take a break from your classes. Not all classes may be enjoyable, but there will likely be a class or two you really like. If you like numbers and equations, math or even science related classes are perfect for you. Or, if you like to write and read, you might find that you love English or newspaper or creative writing. Classes aren’t the only way to find new interests; there are many clubs to get involved in as well, such as theater, photography/yearbook, ESports (video games), and so on. 

For those who plan on going to college or getting a job, getting involved in school will look great on the applications. While having good grades is important, you want to give colleges and jobs more reasons to accept you. It can be volunteering (National Honor Society), sports, student council/government, and so on. Getting involved can also help you create friendships and make connections that may help you in the future. Making friends is a very important part of high school, or just an important part of life. Some may be social butterflies and find it easy to make friends, while others find it more difficult. However sociable you are, getting involved will make it even easier. Not only that, but you will create strong bonds. Sometimes, it’s not enough to just call someone a friend; you want someone who you share a special connection to. School is generally a very diverse place with at least one person who has the same interests as you.

Getting involved does not only relieve the academic pressure, but increase your academic performance. A 2018 report from the U.S. Census Bureau proves that students involved in activities are more engaged than those who are not involved. For the most part, you have to keep passing grades and good attendance in order to remain in a club or sport. That can be enough motivation to do your work and go to your classes, therefore increasing your academic performance. With that being said, the work can understandably be tiring and stressful; getting involved can relieve you from that pressure.

Getting involved in school has limitless benefits leading to a positive impact on your life. Don’t be afraid to try things outside your comfort zone either, spoken from a usually introverted person. Exploring possible interests could lead you to explore yourself.