Extra curricular programs are synonymous with Mira Costa, and it is easy to see why. Our Model UN team is nationally ranked, our newspaper and tv show are near professional quality, and our various music programs are some of the best you will see at a high school level. And that does not even touch tens of other extra-curricular activities and probabaly most importantly, our athletic programs. The amount of choices for student involvement outside of the conventional classroom is daunting at first. And that means that there is truly an activity for everyone.
But here is my advice: don’t do an activity just so it will look good on your college resume, only pursue something that you are truly passionate about. As much as Model UN gets hyped by teachers and parents, it isn’t for everyone. Unless you truly love debate and are intrigued about global affairs, then you shouldn’t put your time into it when there are tons of other options available. The same goes for music. Do you really love playing the violin? If you do, as I do, then I strongly encourage taking orchestra classes, but if you aren’t don’t waste your time. Extra-curricular should never feel like an academic class to you, that is not their purpose. These “extra” programs are supposed to enjoyable. Obviously most will require hard work, but that work should never completely eclipse your enjoyment. If you ever feel the same abhorrence to the newspaper as you do your AP Chem class, then you need to reconsider why you are in that program at all.
Also, be realistic with your time. I was guilty of this my first couple years at Costa. If you plan on taking a challenging course load, I don’t recommend taking tons extra-curricular classes. Narrow down you interests . It is better to excel in one area than to be mediocre because in four because you have no time. And trust me, colleges will notice if you join seven clubs and four extra curricular classes solely to boost your app. They want to see your dedication to your own passions.
Most importantly, however, is the experience you will gain if you really commit to one or a few of these activities. Your four years will fly by at Costa as mine did, and honestly the friendships and memories I have made in my extra curricular activities are some of my highest points of high school.