According to a Drake University study conducted in 1994, there is a noticeable relationship between the grade point averages of students participating in extracurricular activities and those who do not participate. Author James O'Dea's research indicates that students who are more involved in extracurricular activities tend to be higher achievers.
Participation in out-of-the-classroom activities teaches students many life skills and organizational tactics that are invaluable later on. Many of these skills can't be learned very well in the classroom, and they're considered essential to personal development. That may explain the boost in grades seen by students who stay very involved.
Extracurricular involvement doesn't just have positive impact on students who are high-achievers. A study conducted by J.L. Mahoney and R.B. Cairns found that the school dropout rate among at-risk students was markedly lower for students who had participated in extracurricular activities.
It could be argued that the positive benefits that come with participation in sports and clubs (i.e. self-confidence, responsibility, discipline) cause students to feel more invested in their education and in what they have to offer an organization.
It's always important that students be careful not to overextend themselves by getting involved in too many activities. Not every student can manage to do well in both academics and out-of-the-classroom activities. Primary attention should be paid to the academics rather than outside activities. According to research done by James O'Dea at Drake University, more research is needed to determine if extracurricular activities have an effect on attendance, discipline and self-esteem.