High school may be the most important four years of a young person’s life. The lessons you learn in classes like math, science, and literature are important skills and information that can help you with getting jobs and being an overall success in life. But what about classes like art, music, and sports? Aren’t they important too? 

Academic clubs and other extracurricular activities are important aspects of school and many high school students highly enjoy them. It may seem like extracurriculars have no use besides being fun but these activities are actually incredibly beneficial to students in their growing lives. “These activities can strengthen your mind and make you more successful and focused in the classroom” (learn.newman.edu). 

Extracurriculars have a positive impact on students’ school work and grades which can lead to being successful in life. Because of this, many schools are making it a goal to encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities in the hopes that this will benefit students in their studies. 

Extracurriculars help students to become more involved in their school and get to know their peers. Joining sports and clubs can introduce students to new people causing them to become more outgoing and communicative. “These activities offer opportunities for students to learn the values of teamwork, individual and group responsibility, physical strength and endurance, competition, diversity, and a sense of culture and community” (nces.ed.gov).  

In a recent interview with North senior Joseph Vargas, he shares his experience playing sports at North and how it has impacted his grades in a positive way: “But it’s also good for your grades because if you have a certain GPA, they don’t let you play.” He then says that this has motivated him to stay on top of his grades so that he can continue to play sports.  

North principal Jodi Gonzales says that she feels extracurricular activities like clubs and sports really impact a student’s work in and out of school. “So, more connected and it gives them a better high school experience and it tends to improve everything when it comes to grades, behavior, and attendance.” 

Extracurricular activities not only help you in school but can help you outside of school in your day-to-day life as well. Whether it be higher grades and attendance, or better communication skills, they can bring you many opportunities and provide a pathway to success.