Book excerpt: Learn how to tackle freshman year obstacles with ease with The First-Year College Experience Handbook. One of the most important aspects of a successful college career includes getting involved with extracurricular activities. But, as studies have shown time and time again, it is the quality of the activity that matters most. This means choosing an extracurricular activity that sparks passion and genuine involvement, which often results in students achieving better grades, becoming more connected to their peers and teachers, and feeling more satisfied with their education in general.