Exploring the Relationship Between Student Success and Participation in Extracurricular Activities

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In our research on university students from historically under-represented backgrounds who successfully graduate from their undergraduate degree program or are in their final year, we found that many who participated in out-of-class activities indicated those activities were important to their success. We take a strengths-based approach to focus on: (1) students who have reached their final year of study or have recently completed their undergraduate degrees, and (2) the potential relationships between student success and the different types of out-of-class activities in which students engage during their time at university. By focusing on strengths rather than deficits, we can learn how traditionally underrepresented students who are often considered “at-risk” of not attending university or completing their studies are successful in persisting to graduation. Using findings from 690 surveys and 27 one-to-one interviews, we explore the relationship between extracurricular and leisure activities on undergraduate university students’ success. Over one-third of our participants were involved in extra-curricular activities; the majority of these students felt those activities aided them in being successful. We explore what students tell us about how participation in out-of-class leisure activities influenced their academic success. Based on our findings, we recommend that universities encourage and support student clubs and activities as a way of creating community, while offering opportunities for the development of skills.