How to: do more extracurriculars

Hello, Reader!

This is the perfect follow up to my post about writing a Personal Statement because the extracurriculars you do are the key to an attractive PS. However, I do want to point out that the things you do outside of school shouldn’t be motivated by “what can I add to my PS” but rather by your genuine interests and passions both within and outside of your subject. You shouldn’t live your life to impress your admissions tutor- live your life for you, and then write it in a way that will impress your admissions tutor. 

The reasons to do more extracurriculars are endless; they can help you develop your personality, teach you new skills, make new friends. Essentially, the things you do outside of the classroom are the ones that make you a well-rounded person- not just a student. Whether it is something related to your subject, (sample lectures, talks at universities, tutoring/mentoring younger students in your subject, etc.) or something absolutely separate from it, (volunteering, leadership roles, organising events, etc.) it enriches you in some way and makes you stand out as a person who pursues their interests or takes initiative or gives back to the community- however you decide to frame it.

Developing interests outside of your subject can help you get away from it when it gets too much. This way it’s less likely that you will grow to hate it as revision hangs over your head and the thought of the exam gives you a nervous breakdown. You know what else helps with stress and feeling overwhelmed? Having a community of friends and people who support you, which is easy to find over common interests or a common goal.

I know what you’re thinking: my studies are taking up all my time already. Well, at the time I’m posting this, your summer is about to begin if it hasn’t already. Take this time to do something extra. Whether this is an online course or getting involved or organising a big project, accomplish something this summer which you might have missed out on because of the business of the school year. On the other hand, why wait until the summer holidays? You’ve got weekends and afternoons after school in which you are able to fit in something that can get you away from your revision in a productive way. If you need to work and your job also takes up your time- remember that your job is also, in a way, an extracurricular. Try to get the most out of your time at work because you can learn new skills and meet new people in any environment. And guess what? That public lecture at a high ranking university that is relevant to your subject will probably be a better spent hour than going over those notes for the 6th time that day. If you’re desperate to revise still, you can do so during the journey, but I think that the journey to that event is an amazing opportunity to catch up with a friend.

Bottom line is that it’s worth making time for extracurriculars because they’re beneficial not only for your Personal Statement but also for your growth as a person and for your mental health. They’re an amazing way of taking productive revision breaks. Take five minutes now to write down some things you really want to get involved with and have a look around the internet for some opportunities!

Happy researching!

Love, 

Agnes xo