Why Extracurriculars Matter?
Extracurriculars. The dreaded word. It’s a term that often sparks groans and eye rolls, especially when you already have a mountain of schoolwork, assignments, and personal commitments to juggle. Many of you might be asking, why should we add even more to our already full schedules? After all, isn’t academic success the main focus?
The truth is, No.
While good grades are important, they do not tell the full story of who you are as a person or as a potential candidate for future opportunities. In today’s world, success is not only about excelling in the classroom; it’s about developing a well-rounded set of skills that will prepare you for the complexities of the real world. Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in this development.
Why they matter in college?
1. Holistic Development
While academics are crucial, college is a time to grow not just intellectually but personally. Extracurricular activities help you develop soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and time management. These are the qualities that make you a well-rounded individual, prepared for the challenges of the real world. College is a space where you are encouraged to explore interests outside your major, and extracurriculars provide an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.
2. Building a Stronger Resume or Portfolio
In today’s competitive job market, employers and graduate schools look for more than just good grades. They want candidates who can demonstrate initiative, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. Participating in extracurriculars helps you build a more robust resume by showing that you are proactive, committed, and capable of balancing multiple responsibilities. It gives you tangible experiences to talk about in interviews or application essays, setting you apart from others with similar academic achievements.
3. Networking and Building Connections
College is a prime time for building relationships with peers, faculty, mentors, and professionals in your field of interest. Extracurricular activities—whether through student organizations, clubs, or volunteer opportunities—offer a natural platform to meet like-minded people and expand your network. These connections can lead to future collaborations, internships, job opportunities, and lifelong friendships.
4. Improving Mental Health and Well-being
College can be stressful, with the pressure of academic work, social challenges, and figuring out the future. Engaging in extracurricular activities provides a healthy outlet for stress, offering a break from the intensity of studying. Whether it’s exercising in a sports club, practicing a hobby in an art group, or socializing in a student organization, these activities can help you maintain mental balance and well-being during a challenging time.
5. Creating Opportunities for Career Exploration
Many extracurricular activities allow you to explore potential career paths. For example, joining a business club, taking part in a theatre group, or volunteering for a nonprofit organization might spark a newfound interest in a field you hadn’t previously considered. College is a time to experiment with different roles and industries, and extracurriculars can help you identify what you’re truly passionate about and how you might want to apply your skills professionally.
6. Developing Leadership and Initiative
In college, extracurriculars provide numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles, whether by heading a student club, organizing events, or participating in community outreach. These experiences are invaluable in shaping your leadership style and teaching you how to motivate others, manage projects, and handle challenges—all skills that are crucial for success in any career.
7. Demonstrating Passion and Commitment
Colleges and universities often seek students who are not only academically capable but also passionate and engaged in their interests. Extracurriculars allow you to demonstrate this passion, whether it’s through volunteer work, participating in a club, or taking leadership roles. Admissions officers and employers appreciate candidates who can show they are committed to causes they care about or are willing to dedicate time and energy to pursuits beyond academics.
8. Enhancing Overall College Experience
College is more than just a place to earn a degree; it’s a time to have new experiences, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and be part of a community. Extracurriculars help you immerse yourself in campus life, contributing to a richer, more fulfilling college experience. These activities can help you make the most of your time at college, providing memories, friendships, and experiences that last far beyond graduation.
Extracurriclars at Krea
When I first stepped onto campus, it felt like the start of an exciting new chapter—fresh books, new faces, and the promise of endless possibilities. My days quickly became a blur of lectures, assignments and a lot of chit chat with friends. I hadn’t stepped beyond my comfort zone, beyond the realm of academics, but afterall college is more than just about grades.
In the beginning, juggling classes with extracurricular activities was tough. Learning how to balance all these tasks helped me learn one of the most important skills we all should possess, time management. What I love most about extracurriculars is that they bring together people from different backgrounds and experiences which help you learn and broaden your perspectives.
At Krea, the campus is always brimming with a wide variety of student-run clubs and committees, all designed for students, by students. These clubs go above and beyond to create a lively and engaging atmosphere, offering numerous opportunities for involvement. From hosting regular club meetings to putting up showcases every trimester to organising exciting activities like stalls, movie screenings, and informative sessions, they ensure that every student has the chance to explore their passions and engage with the vibrant campus community. With such dynamic initiatives, these clubs effectively promote their activities and make participation both fun and rewarding.
Connect Club: Where debates, Model United Nations (MUN), and quizzes spark intellectual engagement.
Cyber Club: For tech enthusiasts eager to navigate the digital frontier.
Mudra (Dance Club): A platform for expressing rhythm, culture, and passion through movement.
ESOK (Economics Society at Krea): Delving into the dynamic world of economics and policy-making.
Rachana (Design Club): Channeling creativity through design and innovation.
Prakriti (Environment Club): For those committed to protecting and nurturing our planet.
Navyata (Fashion Club): Where fashion meets creativity and self-expression.
Finance Club: Unlocking the secrets of the financial world through collaboration, guest lectures and insight.
Kala (Fine Arts Club): A space for painters, sculptors, and visual artists to create and showcase.
Gaming Club: A haven for gamers who love strategy, competition, and digital adventures.
Inara (Innovation & Entrepreneurship Club): Formerly known as the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Club, this is where ideas take flight and startups begin.
Nirnay (Legal Club): For budding lawyers, legal enthusiasts, and those passionate about justice.
Syahi (Literary Arts Club): Celebrating the written word in all its forms—poetry, prose, and storytelling.
Symmetry (Math Club): A space for solving puzzles, exploring theories, and diving deep into the beauty of mathematics.
Layam (Music Club): For musicians and music lovers, creating, learning, and sharing the rhythm of life.
Niti (Politics Club): Engaging with the pressing political issues of the day, and learning the art of governance.
Run Club: For fitness enthusiasts, chasing personal bests and pushing limits together.
Sukrutya (Skills Club): A space to hone practical skills and equip yourself for future challenges.
Aikyatha (Social Outreach Club): Making a difference by connecting with communities and driving social change.
Sports Club: For athletes of all levels in all sports like basketball, football, cricket volleyball and more, engaging in teamwork, competition, and fun.
Rangasthala (Theatre Club): Bringing stories to life on stage, and creating memorable theatrical experiences.
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Two of my personal favourite clubs at Krea are the Mudra Club, our dance club, and the Finance Club. While they are completely different, both offer unique benefits—Mudra allows me to unwind and pursue my passion for dance, while the Finance Club provides valuable real-world knowledge that enhances my academic journey.
With over 20 clubs and various subcommittees, there’s something for everyone, offering countless ways to engage and explore your interests. And for BBA students, we also have our own upcoming clubs, so stay tuned for exciting updates!
Conclusion.
At the end of the day, extracurricular activities offer a chance to develop a wide range of skills outside the classroom that can significantly enhance your personal and professional growth.
By stepping out of your academic routine and pushing yourself to engage in something new, you’ll learn more about yourself—your strengths, your weaknesses, and your passions.
The confidence you gain through tackling new challenges and working with others will serve you well, both during your time at college and in your future endeavours.
From personal growth to career advantages, extracurriculars play a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals. Incorporating extracurricular activities into your life may seem like an added burden at first, but the benefits far outweigh the initial time commitment. It not only helps you build important skills but also plays a vital role in shaping who you are as a person.
Written - By, Aakruti.
BBA 24-27
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