Best Extracurricular Activities at Calhoun School That Enhance College Applications

Extracurricular activities are a very important part of a well-rounded education, and at Calhoun School, students have access to a diverse range of clubs and programs that foster creativity, leadership, and academic excellence. From robotics competitions to theater productions and social justice initiatives, these experiences showcase students’ passions and make them stand out in the competitive college admissions process.
If you’re looking for ways to make the most of your high school years while strengthening your college applications, here are some of the top extracurricular activities at Calhoun School that can help pave the way for future success.
Top 10 Clubs and Organizations To Join at Calhoun
- Student Government Association (SGA). Want to be a leader? SGA lets students represent their classmates, help plan school events, and work with teachers to make Calhoun better. It’s a great way to develop leadership and teamwork skills. More about SGA
- Model United Nations (Model UN). If you’re interested in world events and debating, Model UN is for you! Students take on the roles of different countries and discuss global issues, improving their public speaking and critical thinking skills. More about Model UN
- Diversity and Accountability Board. This club works with teachers and students to promote fairness, inclusivity, and diversity at school. If you care about making a difference and creating a welcoming environment, this is a great group to join. More about this club
- Affinity Groups. Calhoun has different clubs for students who share similar backgrounds, interests, or experiences. These groups provide a safe space for students to connect, support each other, and celebrate their identities. See all affinity groups
- Book Club. Love reading? This club lets students explore different books, discuss interesting ideas, and share their thoughts with friends. It’s perfect for book lovers who want to read for fun and improve their analytical skills. More about Book Club
- Gardening Club. Get your hands dirty and help make the school greener! Gardening Club teaches students how to grow plants, take care of gardens, and learn about sustainability. Plus, it’s a great way to relax and enjoy nature. More about Gardening Club
- Hip Hop Club. Love hip-hop music and dance? This club explores hip-hop culture, from breakdancing to rap and DJing. It’s a fun way to express yourself, learn new skills, and appreciate the history of hip-hop. More about Hip Hop Club
- Movie Club. If you love watching and talking about movies, this club is for you. Students watch films together and discuss their meanings, storytelling, and filmmaking techniques. It’s a great way to learn about cinema and share opinions. More about Movie Club
- Chess Club. Test your strategy and problem-solving skills by playing chess with other students. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Chess Club is a fun way to challenge yourself and improve your thinking skills. More about Chess Club
- Sports Club. For students who love to stay active, Sports Club offers a mix of fun games and physical activities. It’s a great way to play sports, exercise, and build teamwork skills. More about Sports Club
Engaging in these clubs allows Calhoun students to pursue their passions, build meaningful relationships, and develop skills that are highly attractive to colleges and universities. For more information on these and other extracurricular opportunities, visit Calhoun’s Clubs & Affinity Groups page.
Notable Calhoun School Alumni
Calhoun School has a strong track record of producing talented graduates who have excelled in various fields, from entertainment and journalism to activism and the arts.
- Ben Stiller – Emmy-winning actor, comedian, and filmmaker (Zoolander, Night at the Museum).
- Julianna Margulies – Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress (The Good Wife, ER).
- Jordan Peele – Academy Award-winning filmmaker and comedian (Get Out, Nope).
- Maggie Gyllenhaal – Acclaimed actress and director (The Dark Knight, The Lost Daughter).
- Josh Radnor – Actor, director, and musician (How I Met Your Mother).
These alumni highlight the school’s commitment to nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and individuality—key qualities that Calhoun’s clubs help students develop.
Why Calhoun School Clubs Matter for College Admissions
Colleges want students who are not just academically strong but also well-rounded, engaged, and passionate about their interests. Calhoun’s clubs provide students with leadership opportunities, hands-on experience, and personal growth, all of which look great on college applications.
By participating in extracurriculars, students can:
- Build leadership and teamwork skills.
- Explore interests in STEM, the arts, activism, and more.
- Gain experience that aligns with future career goals.
- Show commitment and passion—qualities colleges love!
Want to Join a Club at Calhoun?
Getting involved is easy! Whether you’re into activism, performing arts, STEM, or community service, there’s a club for you. Clubs at Calhoun help students form friendships, develop leadership skills, and create lasting high school memories.
Ready to take the next step? Visit the admissions page to learn more about Calhoun’s programs and extracurricular opportunities!
Like what you see here? We are happy to permit you to use our material as long as you link back! Please refer to us as the Cardinal Education Blog.
Related Articles
How to Get Into The Calhoun School: What You Need to Know
The Calhoun School Admissions: Key Deadlines, Events, and How to Apply Successfully
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Should Students Join Clubs at Calhoun School?
Joining a club at Calhoun is a fun way to meet new people, try new things, and take a break from schoolwork. Whether you like acting, coding, writing, or helping others, there’s a club that fits your interests! Clubs help you build skills, boost your confidence, and make school more exciting. Plus, colleges love to see students who are active in school activities because it shows leadership, teamwork, and passion. Being in a club can help you stand out when applying to college. It’s also a great way to explore your hobbies, learn about new topics, and even prepare for future careers. No matter what you’re into, joining a club makes school life more fun and meaningful!
- How Do Clubs Help with College Applications?
Colleges look for students who do more than just study. They want people who are involved, passionate, and willing to take on challenges. Joining a club shows that you’re engaged in your school community and have interests beyond academics. It also helps you develop important skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. If you take on a leadership role—like club president or event organizer—it looks even better on college applications because it shows responsibility and dedication. Plus, clubs can help you explore career paths, make connections, and even gain experience in fields like technology, writing, or activism. The more involved you are, the stronger your college application will be!
- Can Students Join More Than One Club?
Yes! You can join as many clubs as you want, as long as you can manage your time well. Some clubs meet every week, while others only have events a few times a month, so it’s easy to be part of more than one. Being in different clubs lets you explore multiple interests—maybe you love science and music or debate and photography. Joining more clubs means making more friends, learning more skills, and getting more out of your high school experience. Just make sure not to overwhelm yourself with too many commitments. Pick the clubs you enjoy the most and focus on what excites you the most!`
- How Can a Student Start a New Club at Calhoun?
If there’s no club for something you’re passionate about, you can start your own! First, talk to a teacher or school advisor who can help you with the process. Then, find a few other students who are also interested. You’ll need to create a plan for what your club will do and how often it will meet. Once the school approves your idea, you can start hosting meetings, planning activities, and growing your club. Starting a club is a great way to be a leader, bring people together, and make a lasting impact at Calhoun. If you have a fun or unique idea, go for it!