In high school, I struggled to feel as though I fit in. My school had a predominantly athletic
culture, and, much to my frustration, I did not possess a sporty bone in my body.
Social tennis (emphasis on social) was more my steam.
Academia also wasn’t really my strong suit. Don’t get me wrong; I love learning and gaining knowledge about how our world works. However, testing that knowledge was a different story.
Music also didn’t quite do it for me. I absolutely love listening to music; classical music especially stirs something inside me. Sometimes, a salty tear is even urged from inside me. However, trying to make this magic happen myself feels more like pulling teeth than feeling the harmony of an orchestra.
But then I found art, and suddenly, my whole world opened up. I had somewhere to put those
feelings that music brought up inside me, somewhere to manifest the knowledge I so
treasured, somewhere to express myself with the zeal of a rugby game.
In ninth grade, an opportunity arose – a chance to join an exclusive art class that, if we got in, would form part of our curriculum. It would replace the more generalised Arts & Culture class that the rest of the students take. I seized it, working harder on my portfolio than on anything else up to that point. I managed to get into a whole classroom of like-minded peers. We got along like a house on fire and wanted to start something, outside of the classroom, that would be uniquely ours.
The school boasted numerous after-school clubs, from angling to environmentalism – but no art
club. It took time and practice, but eventually, we managed to carve out our own space,
forming the lively and extremely fun Imagination Station. It was safe, accessible, and, most
importantly, made us feel like we belonged.
In sharing my experiences, I hope to guide you to find your place in high school’s often chaotic,
sometimes lonely halls. Perhaps art doesn’t draw you in as it did me, and you
have a different adventure in mind. You can still apply these tips to your own club.
How to start your own after school club:
- Build your Team: The first step is to assemble! Find a committed team of members
who are passionate about running a club with you.
- Create a Mission Statement: Clearly define your club’s purpose. What is the club’s
goal? What need are you addressing?
- Find an Advisor: Look for a supportive teacher or mentor who believes in your
club’s vision.
- Share Leadership: While I wasn’t a natural leader, some individuals in the class thrived in leadership positions and could spearhead the club. That being said, the club was only successful due to a team of people supporting the leader’s load and contributing their unique ideas and strengths.
- Good Music: A good playlist can help create a positive atmosphere at meetings.
After a long school day, it might be difficult to imagine getting together for another meeting. Music might help you to perk things up a little and make things less serious.
- Promote your Club: Make eye-catching posters stipulating the date, meeting place, and the activity your club will be doing together. You could even create your own logo. Make sure to place your poster where people will notice, like on social media or school bulletin boards.
- Plan Ahead: Before every club meeting, you need to have a rough idea of what you
will be discussing to keep things organised and engaging.
- Encourage Participation: Engaging your club members requires speaking with
confidence. This applies to everyone, not just the leader, as listening to multiple
voices is how we foster inclusive and accessible environments. Being open and
approachable helps foster a supportive environment. It’s okay to be nervous and to
admit this aloud. It may give others the confidence to speak up, too.
- Stick to a Schedule: Regular meetings help build consistency and make it easier for
members to participate.
Finding your place in high school can be challenging, but starting a club or joining one can
offer a sense of community and purpose. I hope these tips help you create a space where
you and others can feel at home.
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