I'm really involved in a few clubs at school and wonder if this is something that stands out on a job application. Do employers care about high school extracurriculars, or do they focus more on other experiences?
When it comes to job applications, employers generally do care about your experiences and skills more than your high school extracurriculars. They may be interested in them as they indicate your ability to manage your time, work cooperatively, and demonstrate leadership—qualities that are valued in the workplace.
However, keep in mind that once you go to college or gain other forms of experience, such as internships or part-time work, these experiences will likely matter more to employers than your high school activities. High school extracurriculars can be more relevant if you're applying for your first job or an entry-level role shortly after graduation, or if those activities are highly relevant to the job you're applying for.
For example, if you were the editor of your school newspaper and are applying for a journalism internship, it would be beneficial to include that experience. If you were part of the robotics club and are applying to an engineering firm, that experience might hold some relevance to the employer as well.
As you acquire more experience and skill sets, your high school activities will eventually become less relevant. The bottom line is, while high school clubs and activities may provide some value on a job application, they are typically not the main focus for employers, particularly as you progress in your career.
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