<p>I've homeschooled since 8th grade; sophomore year is now winding up, and I'm a full-time student in a rigorous online program. Academically, I'm where I want to be.</p>
<p>As for extracurriculars, I feel like I'm lacking something. I love what I do now--homeschooling has allowed me to really delve deeper and develop my interests-- but am at a loss as to what other activities I can pursue. My area is not very lenient to the (small) homeschooling population; understandably, I'm not allowed to play sports through the public school or join any of their clubs. Here's what I've been doing with my time:
- Published short stories, two unpublished novels, three screenplays; various writing workshops
- Painting, drawing; various classes at community center, pieces sold
- Camping, hiking, rafting; traveling to historical sites
- Learning Greek and Latin
- Middle school tutor, five hours a week</p>
<p>I'm considering picking up an instrument. What other ideas can you all come up with that might be a little more out of the box?</p>
<p>Have you read the Teen Liberation Handbook? It’s actually a book written for new unschoolers leaving public school, but it has so many amazing ideas for projects, books, activities that whenever I feel stuck I read it and in 10 minutes I have a gigantic idea for a project. (FYI, I’m an online schooler too). </p>
<p>As for specific ideas…here are some weird ones I thought up off the top of my head: if you like instruments and art, try making instruments. If you like writing and classical languages, try translating some literature on your own. If you’ve written screenplays, take it to the next level and make a film. Also, just keep deepening your work on the things you do: get better at writing and art and language, etc. Good luck!</p>
<p>Try a folk instrument. They are often easier to learn on ones own. My daughter plays the hammered dulcimer (though she takes lessons).</p>
<p>george eliot: I haven’t read that book, but now definitely plan to. Translating is a really great idea–it sounds like it could definitely be a fun challenge. The film suggestion is already in the works! Some friends and I have a 24 hour film competition coming up soon, so there’s also that.</p>
<p>Deborah T: Great list. I do a few of those (yoga class, informal book club) already and hadn’t realized they counted as ECs. I think I’m going to get involved with the community theater.</p>
<p>anotherparent: I was also thinking a folk instrument would be smart since there are many affordable options in pawnshops and the like. Specifically, I’m looking into an autoharp, hammered dulcimer, ukulele, or lute.</p>
<p>Other than what you all suggested, I’m going to work on getting a job/internship and researching with a local professor. Thanks!</p>