Many new college students work for years to get into the school of their dreams—they get great grades and participate in student government, honors courses, and volunteering. After being accepted into a top college, these students may expect to relax and enjoy college. Well, not so fast.

At Yale, students must make long applications for clubs, extracurricular activities, and even classroom spots. The competition is so fierce that many are left out of activities altogether. This phenomenon is seen at many other top colleges, like Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania. If you have issues with your college or university, the Lento Law Firm has vast experience representing undergraduate students. Call 888.535.3686 or provide your details online, and we will contact you.

Types of College Extracurricular Activities and Clubs

Students are competing for many different types of clubs and activities common on college campuses, including:

1. Academic and Professional Clubs
2. Fine Arts Groups
3. Multi-Cultural Clubs
4. Athletics and Recreation
5. Service Groups
6. Other Special Interests Clubs

Advantages of Joining a Club or Activity in College

The advantages of being involved in extracurricular activities in college include:

• Growth and recreation. Students can develop new skills and have fun. This leads to personal growth and overall happiness.
• Networking. Involvement provides a chance to meet potential employers, alums, and faculty, which can prove valuable in the future.
• Academic Enrichment. Some clubs and activities allow students to gain valuable experience in their field.
• Leadership Skills. Involvement teaches students how to assume roles as community leaders.

Competing for Classroom Spots

While competing for a spot on the debate team or the chess club is frustrating enough, many students must also compete for classes they need to graduate. One Yale student noted, "I wrote essays, submitted writing samples, and emailed professors to get into classes I needed to graduate…..it's common for seminars to receive over 100 applicants for 12 spots.”

The lack of classroom slots can become an academic issue for students, preventing their academic progress. This begs the obvious question—if this college has accepted students to these majors, why has it not created enough classroom slots and activities to serve them? These students are often paying outrageously high tuition payments. The college's minimum should be adequate student slots in required classes, not an elaborate paperwork version of The Hunger Games for a few available spots.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help

If you are having an issue with a college or university you are attending, the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team can help. Competition for a limited number of classes can be a disaster for a student hoping to graduate early or with multiple majors. If you are concerned that the lack of access to particular classes is slowing your degree progress, call the Lento Law Firm. We represent students nationwide. Call 888.535.3686 or provide your details online, and we will contact you.