When it comes to applying for university or college, your grades are important, but they aren’t the only thing that admission committees look at. Extracurricular activities play a significant role in showcasing your skills, interests, and commitment. Engaging in activities outside the classroom can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate your well-roundedness. Here are the top 8 extracurricular activities that can boost your post-secondary applications.

Leadership Roles

Holding a leadership position in a club, organization, or sports team shows that you can lead, manage, and take responsibility. Whether you’re a club president, team captain, or a student council representative, leadership roles highlight your initiative, organizational skills, and ability to work with others.

Volunteer Work

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community while developing valuable skills. You can work at a local food bank, tutor younger students, or participate in environmental cleanups. This extracurricular activity shows that you care about making a difference. It also helps build your empathy, communication, and teamwork skills.

Clubs and Organizations

Joining school clubs and organizations, such as a debate club, robotics team, or drama society, allows you to explore your interests and passions. Being an active club member shows that you are curious, motivated, and eager to learn. These activities also provide opportunities to develop teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Sports and Athletics

Participation in sports shows discipline, perseverance, and the ability to work as a team. Whether involved in school teams, community leagues, or individual sports, athletics can enhance your time management skills and demonstrate your commitment to physical fitness and teamwork.

Arts and Creative Pursuits

If you’re passionate about music, art, theater, or writing, participating in extracurricular activities that showcase your creative talents can be a solid addition to your application. Get involved in a school band, art club, or local theatre productions. These creative pursuits highlight your originality, dedication, and ability to think outside the box.

Academic Competitions and Clubs

Participating in academic competitions, such as math contests, science fairs, or Model United Nations, shows that you have a strong interest in learning and are willing to challenge yourself. Academic clubs, such as chess clubs or coding groups, also demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and dedication to a specific field.

Part-Time Jobs and Internships

A part-time job or internship demonstrates responsibility, time management, and a strong work ethic. Whether you’re working in retail, a restaurant, or interning at a local business, these experiences show that you can balance work with your studies and have a commitment to gaining real-world experience.

Community Involvement and Advocacy

Engaging in community projects or advocacy work, such as organizing a fundraising event or participating in environmental activism, shows you are passionate about causes that matter to you. These activities highlight your leadership, initiative, and ability to positively impact the world around you.

Extracurricular activities are a crucial component of a robust post-secondary application. They provide a glimpse into your character, interests, and potential as a student and community member. By engaging in activities that align with your passions and goals, you can demonstrate to admissions committees that you are a well-rounded individual ready to contribute to campus life.

If you’re in high school looking to develop essential skills or in university wanting to get a head start on your career, you may think you don’t have enough time to do anything besides study in your free time. However, there are plenty of ways to squeeze in some time for work or extracurricular activities to achieve your goals. Here are 8 ways to earn money or gain experience while studying in school that won’t interfere with your studies.

Part-Time Job

A part-time job is a very popular way of earning money during the school year. There is usually a wide range of jobs available for students, and you can work in the evenings or on weekends so it doesn’t get in the way of your studies. Part-time jobs can help you earn extra money while still being able to focus on school. Some examples of part-time jobs include working at a grocery store, at a café or restaurant as a barista or server, or at a retail book or clothes store.

Volunteering

Volunteering is integral to gaining experience in the career field you want to pursue and improving your social and communication skills. Many local organizations offer volunteering opportunities. You can meet new people, develop your confidence in a professional setting, and network with business professionals. 

Freelancing

Using some of your spare time to freelance is a good way of earning money and gaining experience in the field you want to pursue as a career. If you are particularly good at web design, graphic design or writing and blogging, for example, you can use these skills to offer paid work to clients to earn some extra money while still studying. Becoming a freelancer will also help you take the first step in your career as you can develop your communication skills with clients, build your confidence and improve your trade skills as the work comes in.

Free Courses

It is always helpful to learn something new, and taking free online courses to further develop your skills is a great idea. For example, you can take classes on digital and IT to build computer skills, business and finance to gain marketing and leadership skills, or personal development courses to improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. There are hundreds of online courses designed to strengthen your knowledge, improve various skills, and make you aware of all the latest trends and technology developments.

Tutoring

Tutoring provides work experience and a way to earn money while studying. Whether you are considering a future career as a teacher or specialize in a specific subject, you can tutor other students to gain experience and further improve your subject knowledge. You can earn money while teaching a subject you are good at. Many tutoring services are flexible paid roles, meaning you can work around your own school studies while also improving your communication skills and confidence.

Community Services

Similar to a part-time job but more flexible, doing odd jobs allows you to offer your time and skills to your community while earning some money. You can offer babysitting, dog walking, gardening, car washing, and other services to help the local community and get paid. These odd jobs shouldn’t interfere with your studies and will help you earn some money on weekends.

Hobbies

If you are creative and like to make things, you can sell your creations for a little extra money. Whether you are an artist or photographer, like to knit / crochet, create clothing designs, or do other creative work, you can make unique crafts to sell for personal use or big events. These crafts can be bought as gifts for family and friends, and you can accept custom requests. Enjoy the creativity while earning extra money.

Youth Employment Programs

At Achēv, our Youth Services offer a range of services to help you find summer employment, explore career options, connect with mentors, learn job search skills, access networking opportunities, and increase work-related experience through volunteering. 

Being a high school or university student shouldn’t limit your opportunities to earn money or gain valuable experience while still studying. By exploring the possibilities outlined in this blog, you can be one step closer to achieving your career goals.

As youth navigate the Canadian job market, it’s essential to have a strategic approach to find fulfilling and sustainable careers. This blog post aims to guide teens and young adults, offering insights on choosing the right career path for youth and building a successful future.

Understanding Your Interests and Passions

The first step in choosing the right career path for youth is self-reflection. Identify your interests, passions, and strengths. Consider what activities make you feel fulfilled and engaged. Note the skills you excel in and the subjects that genuinely captivate your curiosity. Understanding yourself is the foundation for making informed career choices.

Researching the Canadian Job Market

Acquainting yourself with the Canadian job market is crucial. Explore industries that align with your interests and skills. Consider the demand for specific professions, growth trends, and potential areas of innovation. Websites like Job Bank and industry reports provide valuable insights into the current job landscape, helping you make informed decisions about your career path.

Networking and Informational Interviews

Networking plays a vital role in finding the right career path for youth. Connect with professionals in your desired field through networking events, online platforms, or local community groups. Seek informational interviews to learn about different careers, industry expectations, and potential challenges. Building a network can open doors to mentorship and valuable advice.

Leveraging Educational and Training Opportunities

Investing in education and skill development is a strategic move for career growth. Explore educational programs, certifications, or apprenticeships that align with your chosen field. Many organizations offer specific programs for youth to enhance their skills and qualifications. For example, Achēv’s Youth Services helps equip youth with the skills and experience they need to navigate the workforce, find their dream career, and prepare them for a successful future. Take advantage of these opportunities to make yourself more competitive in the job market.

Volunteering and Internships

Volunteering and internships offer hands-on experience and an opportunity to test the waters in different industries. Participating in such programs enhances your resume and provides insights into the day-to-day workings of specific careers. Volunteering can also help you expand your network and make valuable connections within your chosen field.

Considering Transferable Skills

You may possess skills gained from previous experiences, such as extracurricular activities or volunteering, that are transferable to the job market. Identify these skills and showcase them in your resume and interviews. Highlighting your adaptability, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities can make you a strong candidate.

Exploring Entrepreneurship Opportunities

Exploring business ownership or freelance opportunities is worth considering for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Take the time to research government programs, community initiatives, and mentorship opportunities that can support your entrepreneurial journey.

Staying Resilient and Adaptable

The Canadian job market is dynamic, and career paths may evolve. Embrace resilience and adaptability as key qualities on your career journey. Be open to learning new skills, pursuing additional education, and adapting your goals based on evolving market demands. Staying flexible allows you to navigate challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Choosing the right career path as a youth is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. You can discover a fulfilling and successful career path by understanding your interests, researching the job market, networking, leveraging educational opportunities, seeking guidance, and staying resilient.

As a newcomer youth navigating life in a new country, you may face various challenges and uncertainties. From adjusting to a different culture and education system to building new social connections, the transition can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Mentoring programs, such as those offered by Achēv’s Youth Services, can provide invaluable support and guidance to help you thrive in your new environment. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of mentoring for newcomer youth and how it can positively impact your life.

Receive Guidance and Support

One of the primary benefits of mentoring is the guidance and support it offers. A mentor can be a trusted advisor and confidant, providing encouragement, advice, and practical assistance as you navigate challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re struggling with academic issues, cultural adjustment, or personal concerns, a mentor can offer insights and solutions to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Build Confidence and Self-Esteem

Mentoring can be crucial in building confidence and self-esteem among newcomer youth. Receiving positive reinforcement, constructive feedback, and encouragement from a mentor can help you develop a stronger sense of self-belief and resilience. As you overcome challenges and achieve milestones with the support of your mentor, you’ll gain confidence in your abilities and potential to succeed.

Achieve Academic Success

Academic success is often a top priority for newcomer youth as they strive to achieve their educational goals and pursue future opportunities. Mentoring programs can provide academic support, study skills, and resources to help you excel in school. Whether you need assistance with homework, exam preparation, or understanding course material, a mentor can offer personalized guidance to enhance your academic performance.

Discover Career Paths

Mentoring can also play a crucial role in career exploration and development for newcomer youth. Through mentoring programs like those offered by Achēv’s Youth Services, you can gain insights into various career paths, industries, and job opportunities. Your mentor can share their own career experiences, provide guidance on educational and vocational pathways, and offer networking opportunities to help you explore and pursue your career aspirations.

Navigate Canadian Culture

Adjusting to a new culture and building social connections can be challenging for newcomer youth. Mentoring programs allow you to connect with mentors who understand your cultural background and can offer support and guidance in navigating cultural differences and building social connections. Your mentor can introduce you to community resources, cultural events, and social activities, helping you feel more connected and integrated into your new environment.

Develop Essential Life Skills

Mentoring fosters personal growth and development by encouraging self-reflection, goal-setting, and continuous learning. Your mentor can help you identify your strengths, interests, and values and support you in setting and achieving meaningful goals. Through regular interactions and feedback from your mentor, you’ll develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making, which are valuable for your personal and professional development.

By engaging in mentorship programs, you’ll have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, advocacy skills, and a sense of social responsibility. Your mentor can inspire and empower you to make a difference in your own life and the lives of others, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency. Embrace the opportunity to connect with a mentor and embark on a journey of growth, learning, and success.

Embarking on the journey to finding your first job as a youth can be both exciting and daunting, especially in the dynamic Canadian job market. As a young individual in Canada, you are entering a diverse and competitive job landscape that offers numerous opportunities for growth and learning. In this blog post, we will explore key strategies to help you navigate the Canadian job market.

Understanding the Job Market

Before delving into the job search process, it’s crucial to comprehend the Canadian job market and its nuances. Canada boasts a robust and diverse economy, with job opportunities spanning various industries. An important component of finding your first job as a youth is to research the current job trends and in-demand skills in your area of interest will give you a competitive edge when tailoring your application materials.

Building a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Crafting a compelling resume and cover letter is the first step in presenting yourself as an ideal candidate to potential employers. Highlight your education, relevant skills, and any extracurricular activities or volunteer work that demonstrate your commitment and work ethic. Tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, and use your cover letter to express genuine interest in the position and company.

Networking and Informational Interviews

In Canada, networking plays a crucial role in the job search process. Attend career fairs and industry events, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Consider reaching out for informational interviews with individuals working in your desired field. This not only provides valuable insights into the industry but also expands your network, increasing your chances of discovering hidden job opportunities.

Utilizing Online Job Portals

Online job portals are powerful tools for job seekers. Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Workopolis feature a plethora of job listings across various industries. Create profiles on these platforms, upload your resume, and set up job alerts to stay informed about new opportunities. Additionally, explore specialized job boards that cater to specific industries, ensuring you don’t miss out on niche job openings.

Exploring Internships and Co-op Programs

Internships and co-op programs are excellent ways to gain hands-on experience and make valuable connections in your chosen field. Many Canadian companies offer internships to students and recent graduates, providing a stepping stone to finding your first job as a youth. Research organizations that offer such programs and submit applications to gain practical experience while enhancing your employability.

Showcasing Soft Skills

While technical skills are essential, employers in Canada also value soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Highlight instances where you’ve demonstrated these skills in your resume and during interviews. Participate in extracurricular activities or volunteer work that allows you to develop and showcase these attributes, making you a well-rounded candidate.

Taking Advantage of Youth Employment Programs

Canada has various government-sponsored programs, like Achēv, aimed at supporting youth employment. Achēv’s Youth Services offers various youth employment programs that provide valuable resources, training, and mentorship opportunities, enhancing your chances of securing meaningful employment.

Finding your first job as a youth in Canada requires a combination of proactive efforts, networking, and a well-crafted application strategy. By understanding the job market, building a strong resume, networking, utilizing online job portals, exploring internships, showcasing soft skills, and taking advantage of youth employment programs, you’ll be well on your way to securing that coveted first job. Remember, persistence and adaptability are key as you navigate the exciting path towards launching your career in the Canadian workforce.

It’s always a great idea to give back to your community, especially if you are a youth. You are volunteering your time for a good cause and developing new skills, making an impact, creating connections and gaining valuable work experience! However, giving back to the community doesn’t only mean volunteering within an organization. It can also include performing a random act of kindness, donating toys or clothes or raising awareness of social issues. As a youth, here are the reasons why you should give back to your community.

Make an Impact

Volunteering helps develop a sense of purpose as you address others’ needs and work for the betterment of the community. Participating in volunteering activities, doing community service and helping others will motivate youth to think about bringing social change and learn how to value and understand themselves throughout the process. Exposure to meaningful work and opportunities at this age helps foster empathy and inclusivity, which is essential to building safe and unified communities.

Improve Your Self-Confidence and Well-Being

Giving back to the community can help you gain self-confidence, contributing to your personal growth. Participating in community activities is a great way to discover new interests and hobbies and take on new challenges. It also creates a sense of purpose and provides opportunities to gather positive life experiences. By offering your time and skills to organizations like Achēv, you can make a positive impact on individuals and communities, giving you a sense of accomplishment. As you get involved in charity work, you’ll get a sense of contribution that can be fulfilling, which can benefit your emotional well-being. 

Achieve Academic Success

Non-profits and community service organizations offer many volunteering opportunities. Youth who volunteer are less likely to feel disconnected from school and work. They demonstrate positive feelings about attending high school and show greater motivation to learn. Volunteer work and good education are the success factors for today’s youth.

Discover Which Career Path Interests You

If you decide to volunteer within a non-profit organization, the experience can help you determine whether a specific career path interests you. Volunteering is also a great way to develop employment skills and learn time management, problem-solving and teamwork skills. It can provide valuable career information regarding work habits, workplace culture, etc. Organizations prefer to hire youth with volunteering experience as they already know they can thrive in team settings and take on challenging work assignments.

Create Meaningful Connections

Community involvement is a great opportunity to meet new people, make friends and develop professional connections. You’ll be able to expand your network, interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, and meet people outside of your social circle who may have a positive influence on you. These connections can also refer you to exciting job opportunities in the future or help you with school assignments. A strong and robust youth network will play an integral role in your future career success and employment opportunities.

Giving back to the community helps you gain recognition from non-profit organizations and the broader community. This recognition can further strengthen your sense of belonging and give you a sense of purpose. Volunteer organizations and communities reap just as many benefits when they encourage volunteerism among the youth.

Achēv assists young people in building their confidence and navigating the workforce to achieve long-term employment, meaningful careers, and successful futures. Register for our free youth services today!

It’s summertime! A great time for youth to visit places, spend time with friends and family, plan fun activities or earn some extra money. While many have plans to enjoy their vacation time, some may be looking for ways to use summer vacation to gain experience as a youth. Here are many ways you can gain new experiences as a youth during your summer break.  

Volunteering

Volunteer work allows you to interact with new people from diverse backgrounds, gain new skills and add work experience to your resume. There are many organizations offering volunteering opportunities that you can benefit from. Volunteering also builds your network and enhances your communication skills which can be helpful in the future.

Learning New Skills

One way to use summer vacation to gain experience as a youth is to learn new skills. You can find a short course or research online learning sites. Depending upon what you may be interested in, there are plenty of free courses available online. These courses can help enhance your knowledge and keep up-to-date with the latest technology and trends.

Language Learning

Knowing multiple languages is always a huge asset. You can spend your summer learning a new language or improving your ability to communicate in a language you already know. Communication is always a valuable skill in a work environment. Spending your summer learning a new language can prove beneficial in the coming times.  

Freelancing

No matter what you’re studying, you can always gain professional experience through freelance work. Take advantage of any hobbies you have by pursuing paid or unpaid freelancing work. Suppose you’re interested in photography, graphic design or writing. Freelancing can help you develop these skills further while gaining experience within those industries.

Tutoring

Whether you are interested in a career in education or want to improve your subject matter skills, tutoring can provide a great experience to add to your resume.

Finding a Summer Job

Summer internships can help you gain some hands-on experience in the field of your choice. Many organizations offer summer jobs to gain professional experience and prepare you for employment.

Summertime is your time to learn new skills and gain work experience, which can be useful in your future career. Summertime work experience not only helps you gain self-confidence and makes you independent but also gives you the competitive edge you need to get more and better jobs in the future. Summer should be enjoyed, but it should also be valued for the opportunity it provides youth to explore new career paths.

Achēv assists young people in building their confidence and navigating the workforce to achieve long-term employment, meaningful careers, and successful futures. Register for our free youth services today!