As new students enter, July and August are very significant months within the university campus. During the induction sessions, I can see new and anxious faces, and as I interact with the students, I realize that every student has a different personality, and this has led me to realize that several factors help mould a student’s personality. Given the exhaustive curriculum followed at most universities and schools, students sometimes hardly have time for any other activity, apart from academics. Yet, having realized the benefits of pursuing multifarious activities, some students do pursue activities beyond their academic curriculum.
We at Symbiosis believe that while classroom education is important for gaining knowledge, education outside classrooms is equally essential.
When students participate in clubs, sports teams, or events, it helps them take on leadership roles, developing their decision-making skills. Many activities require working with others toward a common goal, fostering cooperation and communication, and handling different perspectives and conflicts.
While many may argue that students do not have time for extracurricular activities, balancing academics with extracurricular activities helps students develop practical time management skills and prioritize tasks. Engaging in various activities helps students build social networks, improve their interpersonal skills, and learn how to interact with diverse groups of people. Through my interactions with students and observations, I have seen that it boosts their self-esteem and confidence when they accomplish goals, whether in sports, arts, or academic competitions. Success in these areas often translates to a more positive self-image. Engaging in hobbies or interests outside of academics can provide a healthy outlet for stress and improve overall well-being.
Moreover, extracurricular activities often present challenges that require creative solutions, helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Facing setbacks or failures in extracurricular activities teaches students perseverance and resilience, helping them bounce back from difficulties and maintain a growth mindset. Many students at Symbiosis University utilize these opportunities to explore and develop passions and talents outside of the academic curriculum, contributing to their well-rounded personalities.
Also, through activities such as volunteering or participating in community service through the Symbiosis Centre for Outreach and Programme Extension, students have gained a sense of social responsibility and empathy, encouraging them to be active and engaged citizens.
Therefore, students should participate in and explore extracurricular activities and complement their academic learning by building essential life skills that help them grow into well-rounded individuals.
Finally, University education is not just about gaining knowledge and skills for employability; it is about imbibing empathy and sensitivity to society’s needs. It is about building networks and relationships and leadership qualities, and finally, university education is all about creating global citizens!