So, first off, I should point out that the quote used for this week’s prompt doesn’t convince me that extracurricular activities are at all causal in relation to higher grades and more satisfaction with college and social life. I hope that one of the takeaways from everyone’s college experience is a healthy skepticism of statistics and research.

As far as how involvement with the HCSC has been of value to me, I would say it’s three-fold:

First, it has helped me to better distinguish between those things I do well (or am awesome at) and those I do not do well. I do my best to facilitate communication, to help everyone feel involved, and to make sure that goals are accomplished. I do not plan activities. At the same time, doing those things I don’t like/am not good at has helped me to push outside my comfort zone.

I'm still not as awesome as this kid, though.

Second, the HCSC has allowed me to meet and interact with phenomenal students. The group we have is wonderful. I have learned so much from everyone and am very thankful for that.

Third, working with HCSC, and by extension with further BYU offices and administration, has helped me to see that the way (how well/poorly) you organize, work, and communicate within a bureaucracy can be the deciding factor in whether or not things get done. When you move beyond your micro-level committee, things tend to get mucked up and gears just turn much more slowly. This has been a valuable lesson for the future.

Overall, HCSC has been a fantastic learning experience, while also introducing me to people who will long be friends and associates.