Fun Activities for High Schoolers?

Why's high school all study and no play? Any ideas on fun activities I could get involved in, to take the edge off the stress and still look good on a college app?

Indeed, striking a balance between academic rigor and personal interests is crucial for a fulfilling high school experience. While it's important to focus on your studies, participating in fun extracurricular activities not only can serve as a stress-reliever but can also boost your college application. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Join a Club or Start One: Every high school has an array of clubs catering to various interests. Drama, debate, science, art, music, or even a book club can bring a fun element to your regular routine. If your school doesn't have a club that aligns with your hobbies, think about starting your own. This shows initiative and leadership - qualities colleges appreciate.

2. Sports or Fitness Activities: Whether it's being part of a school sports team or joining a fitness class, physical activities can be both fun and invigorating. These activities can also showcase your team spirit and commitment.

3. Volunteer Work: Volunteering can be genuinely fulfilling and provide a sense of purpose. Whether it's helping at a local food bank, teaching underprivileged kids, or working at an animal shelter, there are numerous ways to get involved.

4. Participating in Competitions: This could be academic (like Math Olympiad, Science Bowl, etc.), writing (like the Scholastic Writing competition), or even oriented towards public speaking (like Model United Nations, Speech and Debate, etc.). These are fun, boost your skills, and look great on college applications.

5. Creative Projects: If you're inclined towards the arts or DIY projects, you could think about creating your own video series, starting a blog, or crafting DIY projects. Not only will you enjoy the process, but you'll also create something tangible to show to colleges.

Remember, the key is to choose activities that you genuinely enjoy, rather than those that might merely "look good" to colleges. Authenticity and passion about your chosen activities can be easily seen by admission officers and helps you stand out.