Don’t play the wrong game
We might often be advised that student organizations, more commonly referred to as “orgs,” are a good training ground before leaving the university as they prepare us for the corporate world we’ll step into in the future. They are an integral part of the education process and of the culture of the university. By joining an organization such as council, publication, or club, students gain the skills and experiences that academic activities cannot provide. However, the commitment that is being dedicated to extracurricular activities can be significant and sometimes becomes too much.
Last semester, I almost got my first failing grade in college. I am writing this not because I blame my involvement in the university publication, but it cannot also be denied that being involved in extra-curricular activities lessens the time we allot for studying. I, myself, would always fail to balance my org assignments with my studies. Likewise, org works could be an addition to the stress caused by school requirements, although this can be avoided if time is properly managed.
The Supreme Student Council, for example, is recognized as the highest student body in the university, therefore, the busiest too. Its officers have to commit to their duties as they were chosen by the majority of the students. Being a student leader, however, will require extra hours in one’s daily schedule. This, if mismanaged, will compromise not only their studies but their health as well. And yet, their commitment is important to represent the students and protect their rights.
Gaining new experiences, finding acquaintance, and developing skills are common reasons why students engage themselves in such activities. It is, unfortunately, also evident that others only assume position in student organization for the benefits it encompasses or for the privileges they can brag about. But one of the reasons which stand out is that it adds flavor to our résumé.
Many companies would look for applicants who had held high positions in their respective organizations as it ascertains their ability and experience especially in leadership and teamwork. The fact that this can give a great impression to our future employers does matter because from their viewpoint, an experienced leader is a great follower in their company.
A wise decision should overpower our doubts in choosing which organization to join. We must identify our bounds before committing ourselves to something that we might regret later on. There are students who would include themselves to several orgs without considering that it can significantly affect their studies. If you are one of those who have the capacity to handle such responsibility, you’d probably become far more experienced among others, but I hope you’re not one of those who are struggling to lift their grades up before hitting the rock bottom.
While it is useful to progress in a student organization, we should avoid its interference with our education. Overcommitment for these is also risking our health and studies. A five in your grades is not as high as a five-of-five performance rating in your org. We are not at the university for the sake of these organizations alone. Participating in after-school activities is just a peripheral of our college life. If red marks eventually show up on our student portal, then it is time to change our focal point and make academics the focus. Putting all fault to our involvement with these activities other than our mere negligence is a false incrimination to our respective orgs whose only aim is to cultivate us.
Everyone has only limited amount of time and energy. Part of our growth as individuals is learning to say “no,” even to people who take control in our organizations. There are some who will be disappointed to our incapacity to do what they want us to do, but it is important for us as students to practice self-care. Extracurricular activities will offer us many opportunities while we are in college but they should just be in addition to and not in substitute of the academic program our university has. Setting priorities and keeping an eye on our commitments are still the key in ensuring our well-being.
