Assimilating into campus life at a college or university can take time. After all, much changes between high school and college. Residential students may find college is the first time they spend considerable time away from home among their peers.
College students have more responsibility than their counterparts in high school. College students must manage their schedules, get to class on time without help from Mom and Dad and speak with professors on their own behalf.
One way to mitigate some of the stress that comes with the increased responsibility of college is to take full advantage of campus life. This includes participating in extracurricular activities. High school students may participate in extracurriculars because they know they look good on college applications. But now that college is here, the benefits of extracurriculars may be slightly different.
Physical activity: The Freshman 15 is no urban legend. The National Center for Biotechnology Information says that while most college students do not gain 15 pounds freshman year, a lot do gain some weight upon entering college. A 2008 study published in the Journal of American College Health found the average weight gain upon entering college was 2.7 pounds, with about half of students polled gaining weight. Extracurricular activities, like sports and additional physical pursuits, can help college students maintain a healthy weight even when consuming some not-so-healthy dining hall fare.
Avoid poor habits: A 2023 study by the Afterschool Alliance found that students who participate in extracurricular activities at least two days a week are less likely to smoke marijuana and drink alcohol. These students also are less likely to miss class without a reason.
Networking: Students interact with their peers during curriculum-related clubs, musical performances or sports practices and games. Finding common ground and making new connections is a cornerstone of success in the professional world. Extracurriculars can helps students develop networking skills that will be useful in the future.
Improved mental health: Getting involved can counter feelings of loneliness or boredom that many students feel, especially in their first year at school, says Psychology Today. Rather than feeling unsure and isolated, participation in extracurricular activities can give students reason to chat with new people beyond the rigors of class.
Future connections: Some extracurriculars can pay professional dividends. Academic and social Greek organizations have very strong alumni networks, which can help graduates secure interviews and job offers.
Self-esteem: Participating in activities can boost confidence and self-esteem. Taking on leadership roles in extracurriculars can further a positive self-image as well.
Better grades: There is evidence that managing multiple extracurriculars helps students academically. Cambridge International Education says juggling multiple commitments helps a student value time management, which carries over into school work.
