School isn’t just about studying and learning. It’s also about socializing, making friends and gaining skills that will prepare you for the future. High school is a time to discover your passion, try something new and gain knowledge. 

Joining one of the numerous activities, clubs or sports is a productive way to spend your free time and a chance to learn something new. FHS offers a wide variety of clubs and activities to suit everyone’s interests. From music and science to tech, photography and even a sewing club, there’s something for everyone.

In addition to learning new skills, these activities offer many benefits. Participating in sports, for example, helps develop your physical fitness and stamina, making you healthier while having fun.        

These extracurricular activities also provide a supportive environment where students can unwind and connect with peers, helping them relieve stress by engaging in enjoyable activities. They promote relaxation and enhance mental well-being through shared interests and social interactions, creating safe spaces for students to zone out and leave their worries behind.

Halfway through the first quarter at Fremont High school, I noticed many students not taking advantage of these amazing opportunities that the school provides, despite the fact that most of these activities are free, allowing any student to participate without a problem.

In my home country of Georgia, my school does not provide a wide variety of sports and activities. For that reason, I decided to join tennis at the FHS. So far tennis has helped me make new friends and progress, while having fun. Along with social interactions it provided a lot of physical benefits, like: better cardio, flexibility, muscle strength, coordination and balance.

While I have enjoyed the many benefits of joining the tennis team, it hasn’t been without its challenges. At first, I feared not being good enough, the pressure of tournaments, and not being able to help my partner during games, among other things. Tennis helped me realize that you should always try your best and see what happens, everything’s about having fun and making memories. Tennis has become an activity where I can invest energy, make progress, overcome fears,— and most importantly—just have fun.

So, instead of doom scrolling or bumming around in TST or after school, join one of the many clubs, activities or sports that the school offers. Do something new. Meet new friends. Acquire new skills, new information, and spend your time productively. Get involved and make the most of your time at school!