“Get Involved” is a phrase students can’t escape hearing while attending Lincoln-Way West. However, too many students still choose not to be involved in extracurricular activities. Students should take advantage of the various extra-curricular opportunities that Lincoln-Way West provides. Getting involved at West can mean many forms of participation such as engaging in activities, clubs, sports, volunteering, and school events beyond typical academic responsibilities. Our school offers a multitude of opportunities and options that should be taken advantage of.
As a senior, I ignored the idea of “getting involved” my first three years. I thought that I was too busy to take part in anything. Now that I’m involved in six clubs and various school programs, I have learned that it is very possible to get involved at Lincoln Way West while keeping a work and social life. I decided that joining clubs would be beneficial to my experience at school by giving myself something to look forward to outside of my academic classes. I have gained new leadership qualities and confidence attending clubs that will benefit my future. Along with this, I have a new list of activities I have accumulated that my future university can consider.
Students significantly benefit from getting involved. Getting involved builds leadership, collaborative, and communication skills which can be applied later in life. In preparation for a successful future, participation in activities helps students discover and explore their interests and passions, whether in arts, sports, leadership, or academic subjects. This helps guide future career choices and personal development. Colleges and employers often look for students who have demonstrated involvement in various school activities. It highlights how the student is well-rounded, engaged, and capable of balancing multiple responsibilities. Getting involved additionally enhances your academic abilities. Research shows that students who are involved in extracurricular activities often perform better academically because they’ve developed time management skills and motivation, which carry over to their studies. As a pathway to good mental health, engagement in school activities provides an outlet from stress, builds self-esteem, and can improve mental health by creating a healthy space for positive experiences.
One of the biggest regrets held by upperclassmen tends to relate to not getting involved sooner. Students shouldn’t be deterred by the belief that they don’t have the time or that it is too late, they should reconsider their options. Lincoln-Way West has lots to offer including accommodating, adaptable, low commitment activities that make it easy to get involved despite a busy schedule. It is never too late to get involved as a West student no matter what grade you’re in, you can join a club and try something new opening doors to friendships, growth, and experiences that will make your high school years even more rewarding.
Don’t make the mistake of having an isolated high-school experience by not participating in what Lincoln-Way West has to offer. Take advantage of your high-school years and every opportunity by getting involved to discover new passions, build friendships, and develop skills that will benefit you both now and in the future.
Extracurricular Participation And Student Engagement (ed.gov)
