Isn’t waiting the most tedious and boring job in the world?... Well, yes, and, I wouldn’t dare discount it! But if you use that time to do some interesting stuff, it will not only develop your skills but also help you utilize your time productively. The importance of extracurriculars, especially during the waiting period, could not have been stressed more, and thus, it would be a good idea to pursue activities that you are passionate about. In fact, while the role of extra-curricular activities is significant in developing an all-rounded personality, universities in the US and other countries also see how much involved you are outside of the class.
Well, getting involved in sports or other activities can help develop and shape your identity in ways that you could’ve never possibly imagined. For instance, taking up a sport that you admire or playing an instrument or volunteering for a social cause shall bring you pleasure and a feeling of contentment.
The students’ involvement beyond the classroom setting keeps the campus lively and simultaneously shows a student’s commitment to excel. Students who spend years on a hobby emphasize their dedication and focus, a personality trait that can be made visible to the Admission Officers only through the resume.
So, which hobbies/activities should the applicants pursue?
An ideal strategy would be first to identify your passion and then take it from there. However, there are a few that I would recommend to give you an idea.
1) Learn a musical instrument or join a band or orchestra. You can also create one on your own with a group of friends/people with common interest.
2) Write articles for your school newsletter/newspaper on topics that intrigue you. It will not only highlight your writing skills but also shed light on diverse subject matters that force the readers to take note. Or write a blog on a subject that excites or troubles you. You could raise questions or proffer solutions.
3) Join a sport; it could be Soccer, Tennis, Badminton, Swimming, Hockey, Basketball, et al. Or take up Gymnastics, Karate, Taekwondo, Athletics - The list is practically endless, but the idea is to stay connected with it for long. Now, since outdoor activities have almost come to a halt, you could take up indoor games or even Esports. Considering the pandemic and children’s inability to play outdoor sports, I wouldn’t mind recommending Esports. In fact, you could also participate in these gaming tournaments and earn some extra bucks as pocket money.
4) Volunteer at nursing homes or animal shelters or teach the underprivileged children. If you think you are good in Mathematics or Science, then take responsibility for educating someone who might benefit from your knowledge.
5) Get associated with an NGO. Help them raise funds for the causes you believe in, or provide any kind of assistance they might need. While it’ll keep you engaged with the community, it shall also provide a sense of contribution towards the needful.
6) Start a book club where you can have endless discussions on diverse topics.
7) Join Dramatics or become a part of theatre groups in summer holidays.
8) Internships – Try to acquire some work experience, it could be as simple as joining a firm’s Account department to see how ledgers are prepared or bills of purchases are generated.
Such activities as stated above enable you to give back to the community and enhance your interpersonal skills and, at the same time, foster a sense of selflessness and a fellow feeling. Plus. your engagement in various activities shall infuse discipline and help you take command of whatever job you take in hand. You’ll also see a marked improvement in your personality because you’ll have better time management and organizational skills. All this together, prepares you to plan your day in such a way that you have enough time to study, and productively utilize your free time in activities that you always longed to do.
So, go ahead and chase your dreams!