Extracurriculars - Not sure where to start?

Question

I just graduated from college and moved to a new city (Doing HR/benefits consulting at Aon Hewitt). So I'll apply in roughly 3-4 years. In college, I did a variety of activities. However, now, in the real world, it is so much harder to do things for me. I know no one, nor do I know good things to do. I'm not even sure what I like.

I want to start doing activities and getting involved in my community...not just for the application. But I am very introverted and don't know where to begin...any advice?

Do I just go to a community center or library or something and ask around? I'm not really good at this whole extracurricular thing out of college. I like fitness, video games, cooking, and teaching others about business.

Thanks,

Van4ez · Answer

If you like fitness you could consider extracurricular activities related to sport. For example, I did an Ironman and volunteered at different running and triathlon events. These activities worked out well for my applications.

Admissionado · Answer

For volunteering, try bigger structures (you know Red Cross, Amnesty International, your church). If you are introverted, bigger institutions may be better because they will know what to do with you and you won't have to initiate anything yourself. Or you can just find something you are personally really interested in (saying teaching computers to kids or reading to the blind or whatever) and start there.

jw · Answer

Good point about the bigger institutions. I agree.

I'm afraid I don't like anything. Even though I am great at work, I prefer to come home and just cook dinner for my brother and myself and relax.

I guess I'll scour my brain and resources to find some good ways to get involved other than personal growth from weightlifting.

CriticalSquare · Answer

Starting at a large institution is great to get your feet wet. Keep in mind that for your involvement to be meaningful, you'll ultimately have to show some level of growth. Once you find something you think you can get excited about, learn as much as you can and treat it like a second job (since it sounds like you're better in that environment). Find ways to lead a project or make a personal impact. You have time on your side, so slowly get involved and see how your role can progress over time. Best of luck!

jw · Answer

Thank you for the response! You said just what I needed to hear.

CriticalSquare · Answer

You are most welcome pal - good luck!!

Bhavik

maxroper · Answer

Hi jw

Thank you for sharing your question. Yes, it can be a challenge finding community activities and staying involved in the "real world" versus college.

If you are looking to gain a long-term volunteer experience that will build upon your business leadership skill and potential, consider one of the below organizations as a resource.

1) SCORE
2) Taproot Foundation
3) USA Leadership Corps

These organizations recruit, train, and match emerging professionals like yourself with small businesses or nonprofits in need of business planning or strategy assistance. You will experience a great feeling of accomplishment and a sense of being connected to your community.

Best of luck to you.

Maxwell Roper
Outreach Director
USA Leadership Corps (USALC)
www usaLeadershipCorps org

Extracurriculars - Not sure where to start?

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