Top 10 Best Clubs at York Prep: Extracurriculars That Boost College Applications

York Prep offers a dynamic learning environment where students thrive both academically and socially. With a 100% graduation rate and students matriculating to top universities, extracurricular activities play a very important role not only for college prep, but also in shaping student success. From leadership and activism to creativity and STEM, York Prep’s clubs provide invaluable experiences that enhance college applications and prepare students for the future. Here are the top 10 best clubs that make a lasting impact on students’ personal and academic growth!

1. Affinity & Social Justice Club (ASJ) at York Prep

The Affinity & Social Justice Club (ASJ) is for students who care about fairness, inclusion, and making a positive impact. The club hosts discussions, awareness events, and volunteer projects to promote equality and bring people together.

2. York Prep Robotics & Coding Club

The Robotics & Coding Club is great for students who enjoy technology and building things. Members create cool engineering projects, compete in robotics contests, and learn real coding skills. This club helps students think critically and solve problems—useful for future jobs in tech and engineering.

3. York Prep Drama Club

The Drama Club is perfect for students who love acting, directing, or working behind the scenes. Members put on plays, improv shows, and musicals, building creativity, teamwork, and confidence—skills that are useful in any career.

4. York Prep Chess Club

If you enjoy strategy and problem-solving, the Chess Club is a great place to challenge yourself. Members play against each other, join tournaments, and improve their focus and patience—important skills for academics and beyond.

5. York Prep Community Service Club

The Community Service Club gives students the chance to help others through volunteer work, charity drives, and local projects. Many colleges look for students who show leadership and a commitment to giving back, making this a great club to join.

6. York Prep Genesis Literary Magazine

For students who love writing and art, Genesis Literary Magazine is a creative outlet. Members write short stories, poems, and essays, and also contribute photography and artwork. Being published in the magazine is a great addition to college applications.

7. York Prep Photography Club

Photography Club is for students who enjoy capturing moments and telling stories through pictures. Members learn photography techniques, experiment with different styles, and showcase their work in exhibits—great for anyone interested in media or journalism.

8. Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) at York Prep

GSA is a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students and allies. The club promotes inclusivity and organizes events that celebrate diversity while educating the school community about important issues.

9. Fantasy Basketball Club at York Prep 

Basketball fans who enjoy strategy will love Fantasy Basketball Club. Members create fantasy teams, track player stats, and compete against each other, combining sports knowledge with analytical skills.

10. York Prep Music Club 

If you love music, this club is for you! Whether you sing, play an instrument, or just enjoy listening, Music Club is a fun space where students perform, collaborate, and explore different music styles together.

Notable York Prep Alumni

York Prep has a rich history of producing successful graduates who have excelled in film, art, music, and photography. Many alumni have built careers in creative industries, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on arts and extracurricular activities.

  • Liv Tyler – Acclaimed actress known for her role as Arwen in The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
  • Phil Abraham – Award-winning director and cinematographer for hit TV shows like Mad Men and The Sopranos.
  • Alexis Rockman – Renowned contemporary artist recognized for environmental-themed artwork.
  • James De La Vega – Influential street artist and muralist known for thought-provoking urban art.
  • Michael Avedon – Acclaimed fashion and portrait photographer, continuing the legacy of his grandfather, Richard Avedon.
  • Samia Finnerty – Rising indie singer-songwriter and actress, lead vocalist of the band Samia.

These notable graduates exemplify the impact of York Prep’s well-rounded education and strong extracurricular programs.

Why York Prep Clubs Matter for College Admissions

York Prep’s 100% graduation rate and success in sending students to top universities are closely tied to its emphasis on extracurricular activities. Colleges look for students who are engaged, passionate, and well-rounded—all qualities that York Prep’s clubs help cultivate!

Want to Join a Club at York Prep?

Getting involved in clubs at York Prep is easy and rewarding. So if you’re interested in social activism, performing arts, sports, or technology, there’s a place for you. These organizations help students build leadership skills, friendships, and experiences that last a lifetime.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with our admissions team to start your child’s application today!

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York Prep Admissions: Key Deadlines, Events, and How to Apply Successfully

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Joining a club at York Prep is a great way to meet new friends, learn skills, and have fun outside of class. Whether you like technology, sports, acting, or helping others, there’s a club for you! Being in a club helps you become more confident, work well with others, and even discover new passions. Plus, colleges love to see students who are active in school activities, so joining a club can help your college application stand out. Clubs also give you leadership opportunities and real-world experience that can help in your future career. No matter what your interests are, getting involved in a club will make your school experience more exciting and rewarding!

  • Colleges look for students who are more than just good at schoolwork. They want to see leadership, teamwork, and passion. Being in a club shows that you are active in your school and care about learning new things. For example, if you’re in the Robotics & Coding Club, it shows colleges you’re interested in technology. If you help lead the Community Service Club, it highlights your leadership and kindness. Even fun clubs like Fantasy Basketball teach strategy and analytics. The more involved you are, the better your college applications will be. Plus, clubs help you build confidence, public speaking skills, and problem-solving abilities—all things colleges and future employers value.

  • Yes! York Prep encourages students to explore different interests, so you can join multiple clubs as long as you manage your time well. Some clubs meet once a week, while others meet only for special events, making it easier to balance multiple activities. For example, you could be in Drama Club and still have time for Chess Club. If you love writing, you can join Genesis Literary Magazine while also being in the Photography Club. Being in multiple clubs helps you make more friends, learn different skills, and build a stronger college application. It also makes school life more exciting and fun! The more you participate, the more you get out of your high school experience.

  • If you have an idea for a club that doesn’t exist yet, you can start one! First, talk to a teacher or school advisor who can help guide you. Then, find a few students who are also interested. You’ll need to create a plan for what the club will do and how often it will meet. Once the school approves your idea, you can start holding meetings and planning activities. Starting a club is a great way to be a leader, bring people together, and make school more fun. Whether it’s a new sports club, an art club, or something totally unique, York Prep supports students in creating clubs that match their passions!