How to Get the Most Out of School This Year (Beyond the Classroom)

As the new school year kicks off, there’s a lot more on students’ minds than just textbooks and tests. Clubs, sports, and other extracurriculars play a big part in shaping your

experience—helping you grow, make friends, and try new things along the way.

Whether you're just starting high school or heading into your final year of college, here are some tips to help you make the most of what your school has to offer:

1. Start with What Interests You

Before you dive into a bunch of activities, take a moment to think about what you actually enjoy. Do you love art? Sports? Volunteering? Want to meet new people or try something completely different? Knowing what excites you will help you pick activities that really add value to your year.

2. See What’s Out There

Most schools kick off the year with a club fair or info session. Show up, check out the booths, and chat with people. Even if something feels a little outside your comfort zone, give it a look—you never know what might spark your interest.

3. Don’t Overload Yourself

It’s easy to feel like you have to join everything. But quality beats quantity every time. Choose one or two things you can really commit to and enjoy. You’ll get more out of it and avoid burnout.

4. Think Long-Term

Extracurriculars aren’t just for fun—they also help you build real-world skills like communication, leadership, and time management. These experiences can also boost your resume or college applications and help you figure out what kind of career you might enjoy.

5. Try Something New

Maybe you’ve never been on stage, played a sport, or led a project. Why not give it a shot?

This is the time to stretch yourself. Some of the best experiences come from taking a risk and stepping into something unfamiliar.

6. Find Your People

At the end of the day, the best part of getting involved is the people you meet. Clubs and teams are a great way to build friendships and find a community where you feel supported and seen.

School is about more than just classes. Getting involved in extracurriculars can make this year more fun, more meaningful, and more memorable. So take a look around, say yes to something new, and see where it takes you.