10 Extracurricular Activities in College You Should Consider

For many young people, the college experience is the first time they've been on their own away from home. It's an exciting time.

But it's not just about academics. Extracurricular activities in college are equally as vital to your adult development as the hours spent in class.

There are so many activities to choose from, for every possible interest and talent. This is your chance to follow your passions, learn cool new skills, expand your social and professional networks, and enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Let's take a look at a list of extracurriculars you should consider as you prepare to head off to school.

1. Taking Part in Campus Government

Most universities offer students the chance become involved in campus government organizations. These can range from residence hall life to overseeing the student body as a whole. Some of these are volunteer positions, while others require running for office and being elected by your peers.

Participating in student government is a great way to increase your social network, make important connections that can follow you into your chosen career, and give you a new appreciation for the complexities of how governing bodies operate.

2. Sports

Have you always considered yourself athletic, or at least a born competitor? College offers a wide variety of opportunities to get involved with any number of varsity and intramural sports activities. This is another way to make friends that you might not meet in class or in the dorm.

From tennis to basketball and intramural baseball to football teams. These are a great way to stay in shape while bonding with new friends from around the country. And there's nothing better than joining with your peers to cheer on your team in NCAA competition.

3. Internships

Obtaining an internship early during your collegiate experience can be a very smart move. It could be within an industry that correlates with your chosen field of study, or something completely unrelated. Internships during college are a tremendous way to gain real-world work experience, make professional connections, and get a head-start on your career.

Working as an intern during high school is also a way to make a big impression on the admissions board when applying for the university of your choice.

4. The Student Newspaper

Working for the student newspaper can put you right on the cutting edge of all activities, big and small, taking place across your campus. It's a way to sharpen your writing and editorial skills, begin to understand the mind of a journalist, and teaches you how to meet deadlines and to look at the world with more objective eyes.

Taking a job on the student newspaper isn't for the lazy. It demands long hours on top of the already hefty workload from your classes.

5. Getting a Part-time Job

Working a part-time job during college isn't really a choice for many students. College tuition is more expensive than ever. And when you pile on the costs of room and board and books, even someone with a scholarship can find themselves stressed about money.

College towns typically offer a wealth of opportunities for students looking to find part-time employment during the school year. Having a job puts extra spending money in your pocket, allows you to go out and have fun with friends, and teaches you the valuable lesson of how to most efficiently manage your time.

6. Do Volunteer Work

Getting involved in volunteer work as a student is really the best of both worlds. It's a way to meet new people and make new friends, while also offering the chance to give back to the community and help those who really need it.

Most colleges should be able to help you plug into volunteer opportunities, both on or off campus. Volunteering helps build self-esteem. It also keeps you active, widens your social network, and exposes you to new ways of reaching out to make a difference.

7. Getting Involved in the Arts

College campuses are filled with ways for you be creative. From music to visual arts and theater programs, just to name a few. Plugging to a creative extracurricular activity is the perfect way to enrich your time on campus while also expressing yourself.

8. Greek Life

One of the best ways to plug yourself into the social scene and make friends fast is to join a sorority or fraternity. These groups offer you the chance to participate in a wide range of social events, serve the community, as well as allowing you to take on important leadership positions.

Being a part of a Greek organization is an exceptional experience. You will feel like you are part of a family, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

9. Academic Organizations

You might want to consider joining an educational organization related to your field of study. This is an excellent way to expand your knowledge of the field and to socialize with fellow students with similar interests. These organizations also provide an opportunity to build relationships with your professors and expand your professional network.

10. Multicultural Organizations

Let's not forget the tremendous value of becoming involved in activities that promote cultural awareness and understanding. The more you can appreciate the various cultures, ethnicities, and racial backgrounds of the world, the better citizen you will make.

College campuses are typically a melting pot of cultures and are an excellent place for expanding your awareness of other cultures.

Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities in College

Keep in mind that higher education is more than focusing on books. You also need to make time for the kind of activities that help to refresh your mind and body. Extracurricular activities in college have a way of reminding you that this is one of the best times of your entire life.

Take advantage of all that your campus has to offer. Try to keep an open mind and stretch yourself. Make tons of new friends and remember to squeeze the most out of every moment.

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