Get Involved by Emma

Get Involved by Emma - November 2014 Scholarship Essay

Get involved; I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve been told this by my teachers, parents, and even my own classmates. Although, at the time, I may have thought that being told this was exceedingly annoying, I am so thankful I took this advice.

High school is more than just getting good grades and going to the football games every Friday; high school is where you find yourself. If you don’t find some way to get involved you are prohibiting yourself from exploring undiscovered interests. Athletics aren’t for everyone, and that’s okay. There are so many different organizations and clubs available: choir, band, Key Club, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Student Council, and so many more. By joining different clubs and organizations, it helps to determine your interests. I took Journalism my sophomore year, and when my teacher asked me to join Newspaper I had mixed feelings about it. I wasn’t sure if I’d like it or be good at it, but I am so glad I joined. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Through newspaper I discovered that I thoroughly enjoy writing, and it has taught me to be more creative in my thinking. Because of my hard work and dedication, I am now Editor-in-Chief of my high school’s newspaper, so step out of your comfort zone and join clubs because you may end up loving them. It never hurts to try something new.

Not only does joining clubs or participating in athletics help you to discover your unknown interests, it also assists you in making friends. Studies show that we are attracted to people with similar interests, and a remarkably easy way to find life-long friends would be to become involved in something you enjoy doing or talking about. I barely knew anyone on staff when I joined Newspaper, but now I consider a lot of staff members my really good friends.

Finally, participating in extracurricular activities creates a well-rounded person. Being involved allows you to have developed interests and activities that you are passionate about. Those that haven’t tried new things or engaged themselves in extracurricular activities often find it more difficult to realize their passion. Colleges seek those that are well-rounded and are knowledgeable or passionate about different things, and they provide them with scholarships. As a result, you should join clubs to become a well-rounded person and to acquire some college scholarships.

Participating in extracurricular activities in high school is vital for you to “find yourself.” Although it may not seem highly important, it is. By joining different organizations, friendships are developed, memories are made, and passions are discovered. Don’t waste this opportunity because you only go through high school once.