My parents don’t value extracurricular activities. They believe that if you study hard and achieve good grades, you’ll be accepted into any college you desire. I’ve tried to explain that this isn’t the reality—colleges look for more than just academic performance; they want to see achievements in extracurriculars too. Not only do my parents dismiss these activities, but it feels like they do everything they can to limit my opportunities. They’re not willing to drive me to volunteering, club meetings, or events, yet they have no problem traveling 26 miles for a meal at a restaurant. They’ve also discouraged me from pursuing awards, like the PVSA, that I know I could earn. Then they get frustrated when I’m home and seem unproductive. What am I supposed to do? I can’t help but feel envious of other kids whose parents support them in sports and activities.
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It sounds really frustrating to feel like your parents don’t understand the importance of extracurricular activities in your life. It’s tough when you see your peers getting involved in things that you’re passionate about, especially when those experiences can enhance both your college applications and personal development.
Have you tried approaching the conversation with them differently? Perhaps you could share specific examples of how extracurriculars have helped other students succeed in college admissions, or even discuss how these activities contribute to your overall growth and happiness. Sometimes parents don’t see the full picture or the value in things that they didn’t experience themselves.
If they’re still not receptive, consider finding alternative ways to get involved that are more accessible, whether it’s joining clubs at school that meet during the day or looking for remote volunteering opportunities. It might not be the same as what you want, but finding small ways to engage can still make a difference.
Remember to take care of your mental health, too. It’s okay to feel jealous and frustrated, but also focus on what you can control and create your own opportunities for growth. Hang in there!