Franklin offered 62 extracurricular clubs last year, providing valuable outlets for hundreds of students to socialize, explore their interests, and engage with their communities. Our diverse student body is reflected by the sheer number of clubs focused on a variety of interests. There are clubs focused on tutoring and academic support, deeper study into particular subjects such as math and science, specific board games or video games, as well as clubs for common interests, identities, and hobbies like baking and gardening. For students who can’t find a club they connect with among all of these, there is a very easy process to create a new one that perfectly fits their interests. You only need to find a staff member to supervise the club, and sign it off with the SUN program.
Joining clubs “allows for more social interaction and gives you the opportunity to make new friends,” says Abraham Torquido (12), a very active member of the Franklin Men’s Volleyball club. “Don’t be afraid to try something new, don’t be nervous to join a club alone. Definitely explore different clubs and try to find one that matches your passions, and remember, it’s all about having fun and enjoying the experience.”
Socially fulfilling experiences with clubs is certainly not unique; many studies on adolescent education show a clear positive relationship between extracurricular participation in things like clubs and performance at school. A study done by the National Center for Education Statistics, a government agency that records data on schools and students from kindergarten through college, shows that there is a strong link between extracurriculars like club participation and higher GPA, better attendance, and higher standardized testing scores. There is also a well-established body of work supporting the positive social emotional benefits of clubs for high schoolers. A recent study out of the University of British Columbia found that increased extracurricular activity positively affected overall life satisfaction and optimism, while reducing levels of depression and anxiety in students.
Aside from the obvious academic and social emotional benefits, clubs can also offer a leg up when applying to colleges, and can teach skills that are relevant post-graduation. Many colleges review extracurricular activities when applying, which can illustrate a complete picture of applicants by highlighting their passions and interests. Many students join clubs with bolstering their application in mind, however the experience can often transcend this goal and become something more meaningful. Annie Latterell (12), an active member of AAA (Asian American Association), says “I joined sophomore year, when we came back into the building. I honestly joined it because I knew I could get a cord by being in it, and colleges like extracurriculars. But I’ve enjoyed my time with the club, so I keep coming back every year.”
For students looking to connect more with their community, clubs can also offer many opportunities to get involved. Some clubs at Franklin organize charitable events that allow students to work directly for a good cause. One of these clubs offered at Franklin is Key Club, an international student run organization with an emphasis on leadership and community service. Franklin Key Club President Sisi Chen (12) says, “Key Club provides many volunteer opportunities and ways that students can help give back to those in need. We bring students in as a community and help students develop strong leadership skills with each opportunity to step up and take part in service projects.”
With all of these well-documented benefits, why would students not choose to join a club? Of course, there are many reasons someone might feel nervous about jumping into something new like a club. But all of the positives far out-weigh any initial nerves. Clubs are great résume padding; but much more importantly, they offer amazing opportunities to meet people and to develop new passions and interests.
