I have always focused more on my grades and classes rather than extracurriculars. As a double major in Astronomy and Physics with difficult coursework, I struggle to consistently attend club meetings or other activities. If I have class work that needs to be done or am struggling to understand material in any of my classes, that will always be the priority over extracurriculars. From my perspective, my academics are the reason I am attending college therefore my classes and grades take first priority.
In my field of Astronomy and Physics, it is especially important to keep up a high GPA and understand course material. Though networking through clubs is also helpful, having strong academics sets students ahead more in a competitive science field. At my school, I am surrounded by students who are also very academically motivated and intelligent. It is important that I keep my grades on that same level in order to be chosen for research opportunities, internships or scholarships. In order to further set my academics apart, recently I added a minor in Biology on top of my double major. This has caused my academic schedule to be significantly more busy than most students. However, I do not have a problem with this since I enjoy the classes I take and the material that I study.
Aside from the reasoning previously explained, I simply have a personal preference towards academics. Even in middle school or elementary school I would always choose to put more effort into class work over joining a club or playing a sport. I am the type to put pressure on myself around maintaining high grades whether it is to my benefit or detriment. Maintaining a balance between extracurriculars and maintaining high grades would be ideal but difficult for me to achieve.
In future semesters, I would like to be able to prioritize my grades while also having time to join clubs that I am interested in and participate in campus activities. Though academics will remain a priority, it is important that maintaining high grades does not completely consume my life. Extracurriculars are fun and useful as breaks from difficult and stressful classes. This past semester, I attended a few meetings for my school’s astronomy club and physics department colloquiums. These allowed me to socialize and make friends with people who have similar interests to me. To summarize, when choosing between a high GPA or strong extracurriculars I would choose to maintain a high GPA. However, being able to have both is a goal of mine for the rest of my time in college.