With colleges and universities becoming more competitive every year, high school students seeking an extra edge in admissions are turning to extracurricular activities. These activities include school clubs, volunteering, music, and sports. Currently, participation in these activities is not required by U.S. high schools or colleges. Some students participate in these activities daily, while others limit their participation to once a week. While becoming well rounded is a noteworthy goal, what are students losing when these activities consume their high school experience. Given the continued emphasis on extracurriculars by high schools and universities, this issue is worth further considering.

Perspective One

All students should participate in extracurricular activities. These activities broaden a student’s horizons and expose the student to new disciplines. School classes only cover academic subjects like math and science, but extracurricular activities make a student’s life well rounded. Furthermore, students need to participate in extra-curricular activities in order to have a stronger resume for college.

Perspective Two

While extracurricular activities may be fun, a student’s time is better spent on either working or studying. Many students need to help their families by providing an extra income. Those who do not need to work for financial reasons are better off preparing for school tests and learning math, science, and English-the subjects that will prepare them for college.

Perspective Three

Most universities expect to see that students participate in 3 or more extracurricular activities. Therefore, high schools should require students to participate in out of school activities beginning in ninth grade. Just as schools require students to study a foreign language, so too should they require participation in extracurriculars. This policy will ultimately benefit the students once they apply to competitive colleges.