High school is a time of growth, exploration, and preparation for the future. For students in the New York Metropolitan area, extracurricular activities provide opportunities to cultivate interests, develop skills and build impressive college applications. This list contains various worthwhile programs and competitions spanning multiple disciplines. Some programs take place during school year weekends and others during the summer, and they are all accessible by car, train and even Zoom.
Science and Engineering
The New York area offers outstanding programs for students passionate about science and engineering. The Columbia Science Honors Program is a prestigious option for high school students with strong S.T.E.M. aptitude. This competitive program provides advanced courses in physics, computer science, and biotechnology on Saturdays.
“I applied to S.H.P. because I wanted to experience a college level course and have the opportunity to learn more about topics that interest me,” an anonymous sophomore participant said. “I like that the professors are from the college and the campus.”
For hands-on learning, Cooper Union S.T.E.M. Saturdays offer workshops in engineering, mathematics, and technology. Students can design projects, solve real-world problems, and work collaboratively.
Law and Social Studies
Aspiring lawyers and policymakers can benefit from programs like the Columbia/N.Y.U. High School Law Institute, where law students teach weekly classes on topics such as constitutional law, criminal justice, and advocacy. Participants engage in mock trials, debate and analyze court cases to learn how to apply the law.
“I’ve always been interested in law,” senior Isaac Yan, a current participant in the program, said. “The Law Institute gave me a deeper understanding of legal principles and how they impact our everyday lives.”
The Legal Outreach College Bound Program goes a step further by pairing academic enrichment with internships, mock trials and S.A.T. prep. Meanwhile, the Youth About Business N.Y.C. Leadership Program combines lessons in law, negotiation, and finance, preparing students for leadership roles in business and beyond.
English and Journalism
Students with a flair for writing or storytelling have ample opportunities to hone their craft. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, a prestigious national competition, encourages students to showcase their creativity in categories like poetry, short fiction and journalism. Winners often receive scholarships and national recognition.
For those interested in journalism and writing, the New York Times Summer Academy offers a two-week intensive program on reporting, multimedia storytelling, and investigative techniques, all taught by industry professionals.
Arts and Performance
New York is a global hub for the arts, and its programs for high school students reflect this cultural richness. The Juilliard Pre-College Program, a highly competitive and rigorous institution, provides thorough training for young musicians, actors, and dancers.
Similarly, the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Program offers young musicians the opportunity to receive conservatory-level training in classical music, jazz and composition.
“M.S.M. is a place where teenagers who share a great passion for music get the chance to communicate and meet people with a similar interest,” senior Suqi Tian, a current participant in the school, said. “I love having the opportunity to learn with the professional faculty members performing with my talented peers.
For those interested in theater, the N.Y.C. High School Theater Festival offers opportunities to showcase acting, directing, and playwriting talents. Meanwhile, visual artists can explore their potential through the Parsons Pre-College Academy, which provides design, fine arts, and digital media courses at The New School.
Business and Economics
Students with entrepreneurial ambitions can join programs like the Future Business Leaders of America (F.B.L.A.), which teaches business skills, leadership, and networking. Local chapters host competitions and conferences to foster real-world experience.
The Junior Achievement of New York program focuses on financial literacy and economic education through interactive workshops and competitions. For a more immersive experience, the Wharton Global Youth Program offers business and economics courses tailored to high school students, providing a foundation in investment, marketing and analytics.
Technology and Computer Science
As we enter a more digital world, programs like Google Code Next offer invaluable opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds to learn coding and computer science. Participants gain hands-on experience with programming languages, app development and other skills.
The N.Y.C. Generation Tech program combines technology and entrepreneurship, challenging students to create solutions for real-world problems. Similarly, Girls Who Code Clubs provide an inclusive space for young women to learn coding while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
Civic Engagement and Community Service
For students passionate about making a difference, the N.Y.C. Youth Leadership Councils enable them to engage in local government and community projects. Participants can influence policies and collaborate on initiatives that address local issues.
Organizations like DoSomething.org encourage students to tackle social problems through campaigns focusing on climate change, mental health, and voter registration. Meanwhile, Red Cross Youth Programs offer leadership and volunteer opportunities in humanitarian efforts.
The New York Metropolitan area is brimming with extracurricular opportunities that cater to diverse interests. Whether students are drawn to science, the arts, law, or civic engagement, they can find programs that nurture their passions and prepare them for future success. By exploring these options, high schoolers can make the most of their formative years and set themselves on a path to achieve their dreams.
