Date of Defense

6-27-2012

Date of Graduation

6-30-2012

Department

Management

First Advisor

Ann Veeck, Marketing

Second Advisor

Jordan Holzgen, Creative Writing

Keywords

extracurricular activities

Abstract

The object of this study is to determine the perceived benefits of building experience beyond academics. This study consisted of online survey through Question Pro with questions about what co-curricular activities students participated in, whether or not the student had held a previous leadership position, perceptions of benefits of extracurricular activities, holding a job on campus, and academics, demographics, and academic status.

Western Michigan University students were invited to participate in the survey via emails from professors and through social media site invites such as Facebook. Students were able to complete the survey at their convenience from Monday, June 18, 2012 to Sunday, June 24, 2012. There were 11 questions and an optional twelfth to provide an email address for the chance to win one of three $20 gift cards in a drawing. The email addresses were delinked from the survey by Dr. Ann Veeck prior to data analysis. Students’ names were never linked to the data.

Data was downloaded from Question Pro on Monday, June 25, 2012. 73 students participated in the online survey. Only Western Michigan University students enrolled during the Spring 2012 semester were permitted to participate in the survey.

Data analysis compares benefits of academics, getting involved with extracurricular activities, and holding a job while in college such as leadership experience, skill development, and personal management. It also rates how much the following characteristics and skills are perceived as a benefit of each of academics, extracurricular activities, and holding a job.

  • Communication Skills
  • Computer Skills
  • Creativity/Innovation
  • Financial Management Skills
  • Flexibility/Adaptability
  • Information, knowledge, or training acquired can apply to future
  • Interpersonal skills (relating well to others)
  • Leadership/Management Experience
  • Looks good on a resume
  • Organizational skills
  • Problem-solving/Analytical Skills
  • Teamwork/Teambuilding Skills
  • Time Management

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

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