The Importance of Extracurricular Activities for Students at Van Hien University
University life is not only about attending classes, completing assignments, and passing examinations. It is also an important period for students to develop essential skills, build relationships, and prepare for their future careers. At Van Hien University, students have many opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, such as academic clubs, volunteer programmes, sports competitions, cultural events, workshops, and student campaigns. Taking part in these activities can bring many benefits, including improving soft skills, expanding social networks, gaining practical experience, reducing stress, and increasing students’ confidence.
First of all, extracurricular activities help students develop important soft skills that may not be fully taught in the classroom. When students join clubs or participate in group projects, they have opportunities to communicate with different people, express their ideas, and listen to the opinions of others. These experiences can improve their communication and teamwork skills. For example, when organizing a university event, students need to divide tasks, make plans, solve problems, and cooperate with other members. Through this process, they can learn how to work responsibly and effectively as part of a team. These skills are extremely valuable because employers often look for candidates who can communicate well and work successfully with colleagues.
In addition, participating in extracurricular activities can improve students’ leadership and time-management skills. Students who become club leaders, team leaders, or event organizers must learn how to guide other members and make appropriate decisions. They also need to manage their time carefully because they have to balance academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities. For instance, a student who joins a volunteer programme may need to complete assignments before attending an event. Therefore, the student must arrange a suitable schedule and avoid wasting time. Although balancing different responsibilities can be challenging, it helps students become more organized, disciplined, and independent.
Another important benefit is that extracurricular activities provide students with practical experience. Classroom lessons usually give students theoretical knowledge, while extracurricular programmes allow them to apply what they have learned in real situations. For example, accounting students can participate in academic competitions, business workshops, or company visits to understand more about professional working environments. Students who join communication or media clubs can practise writing content, designing posters, taking photographs, or organizing events. These practical experiences can help students identify their strengths, interests, and future career directions. They can also add these activities to their curriculum vitae when applying for internships or full-time jobs.
Furthermore, extracurricular activities give students opportunities to expand their social networks. By joining university clubs, workshops, and community programmes, students can meet classmates from different faculties, lecturers, former students, business representatives, and professionals. These relationships may provide useful support during their studies and future careers. For instance, senior students can share learning experiences and give advice about difficult subjects, while former students may introduce internship or employment opportunities. Building positive relationships also helps students feel more connected to the university community and creates a stronger sense of belonging.
Volunteer activities are especially meaningful because they help students develop social responsibility and empathy. Van Hien University students can participate in programmes such as supporting disadvantaged children, protecting the environment, donating blood, helping local communities, or joining summer volunteer campaigns. Through these activities, students can understand the difficulties faced by other people and learn to appreciate what they have. They also have the opportunity to contribute their time, knowledge, and abilities to society. Volunteering can help students become more caring, responsible, and willing to support others.
Extracurricular activities also play an important role in improving students’ physical and mental health. University students often experience stress because of examinations, assignments, financial problems, and concerns about their future careers. Spending all their time studying without taking breaks may cause tiredness and reduce motivation. Joining sports clubs, music performances, cultural activities, or university events can help students relax and recharge their energy. Physical activities such as football, badminton, running, or dancing can improve students’ health and help them maintain a more active lifestyle. At the same time, creative activities can reduce stress and bring positive emotions.
Moreover, extracurricular activities can increase students’ confidence. Some students may feel shy or uncomfortable when speaking in front of a group. However, by regularly participating in discussions, presentations, competitions, or performances, they can gradually overcome their fear. Each successful experience can make them more confident in their abilities. Even when students make mistakes, they can learn valuable lessons and improve themselves. Confidence is important not only in university life but also in job interviews and professional working environments.
However, students need to participate in extracurricular activities in a reasonable way. Joining too many activities may negatively affect their academic performance and personal health. Therefore, students should choose activities that are suitable for their interests, abilities, and available time. They should clearly identify their priorities and create a balanced schedule. Academic responsibilities should remain important, but students should also spend time developing practical skills and enjoying university life. A healthy balance between studying and participating in activities can help students achieve both academic and personal development.
The university and lecturers should also encourage students to become more active in extracurricular programmes. The university can organize more academic competitions, career workshops, cultural events, sports programmes, and community projects. Information about these activities should be shared clearly so that students can easily register and participate. Lecturers can encourage students to join activities related to their majors and explain how these programmes can support their career development. In addition, the university should recognize students’ contributions through certificates, awards, or academic encouragement.
In conclusion, extracurricular activities are an essential part of university life. They help students at Van Hien University improve their communication, teamwork, leadership, and time-management skills. These activities also provide practical experience, expand social networks, reduce stress, improve health, and increase confidence. However, students need to manage their time carefully and maintain a balance between academic work and extracurricular participation. By actively joining appropriate activities, students can enjoy a more meaningful university experience and prepare themselves more effectively for their future careers.