People are arguing about whether extracurricular activities are truly beneficial for us or not. In my opinion, is it a good idea to consider making it mandatory for every student to participate in at least one extracurricular activity. Studies have proven that participation in extracurricular activities helps students improve their attendance and raise their grades, among many other benefits.

Firstly, studies show that students who participate in extracurricular activities have better grades than students who don’t. At Berry, the participation in extracurricular activities of all kinds underwent a 400% increase, and 75% of the kids had higher grades after the activities became mandatory. Additionally, many schools have a minimum GPA for kids to be able to participate in sports.

Extracurricular activities serve as a good way of them to meet other students. I believe that is easier to make friends who have the same interests as you. It could also decrease the percentage of bullying.

I think extracurricular activities make students to experience the feeling of healthy competition. Because we live in such a competitive world, it is important for kids to learn a positive way of competing. In this way, it is better to let kids experience the real world earlier than suddenly put them in that setting when they finish college.

Lastly, extracurricular activities will help kids maintain healthier lifestyles. Studies show that kids who don’t play sports are either very thin or overweight. Some of them will play video games, go on the Internet, and stay in the house for the whole day. Moreover, kids have no place to relieve stress in a healthy manner. Various types of extracurricular involvements can greatly help improve the lives of the younger generation as a whole.

I believe extracurricular activities will help more kids to find their own passions, make more friends, increase their grades, and relieve stress more healthily. If every kid can participate in at least one extracurricular activity, kids will be healthier and happier.

<Nicole Zhang Orchard Hills School 7th Grade>