Why take or participate in an extra curricular? The answer is simple. College. While yes, grades are important, they aren't everything. Colleges don't just want a smart student they want an involved student. They go after someone they think wont just show up at classes and collect credit but will make their institution better. By participating in extra curriculars you can show colleges who you truly are. Some eager students will go out and join 10 different clubs and think that colleges will just love them. WRONG! Colleges don't care about a bunch of meaningless memberships. They're looking for something you truly commit too and that you don't just participate, but you that you improve the organization or affect it in a positive way. 

When deciding to join a club, sports team, or organization make sure you're doing it because you're passionate about it. Not just because you think it would look good on an application. If you truly care about something you're involved in, it won't feel like something you HAVE to do to get into college, but rather a fun way to explore your interests and meet some friends while doing it. 

 

This is a terrific video on extra-curricular activities with thoughts and opinions from real admissions officers.