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Extracurricular activities are not a formal requirement for TJHSST admissions, but many accepted students participate in STEM-related clubs and competitions. While TJ does not disclose a specific list of preferred activities, historical trends suggest that involvement in certain STEM extracurriculars can help demonstrate a student’s interest in science and technology. Additionally, these activities are often the key to your SPSs.
This post breaks down the most common STEM activities that TJ applicants participate in and how they can help strengthen an application.
STEM Extracurriculars That Are Common Among Accepted Students
Technology Student Association (TSA)
TSA is one of the most popular STEM organizations for middle schoolers. It offers a wide range of competitions in engineering, coding, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and more. Many TJ students have participated in TSA at the regional or state level.
While winning competitions can be a plus, just being involved in TSA shows an interest in technology and problem-solving. If your school offers TSA, it’s a great extracurricular to explore.
Odyssey of the Mind
Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving competition that challenges students to think critically, collaborate, and apply STEM and artistic skills to solve open-ended problems. Participants work in teams to design innovative solutions, often incorporating engineering, physics, and storytelling. Many TJ applicants find that Odyssey of the Mind enhances their ability to think outside the box, an essential skill for TJ’s interdisciplinary approach to learning.
Science Olympiad
Science Olympiad is one of the most well-rounded STEM competitions, covering a wide range of subjects from biology and chemistry to physics and engineering. Many TJ students have competed in events such as Circuit Lab, Disease Detectives, and Crime Busters, which align with the problem-solving and analytical skills that TJ values.
Students don’t need to win at the state or national level for Science Olympiad to be a strong extracurricular. Simply participating and gaining hands-on experience in different science fields can be beneficial.
Robotics Clubs (FLL, VEX, FTC, FRC)
Many TJ students have participated in robotics programs such as FIRST LEGO League (FLL), VEX Robotics, FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), and FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). These clubs allow students to build and program robots while learning teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Robotics is particularly relevant to TJ because of the school’s strong engineering and computer science focus. Students who enjoy working with hardware, sensors, and coding often find these activities valuable.
CyberPatriot and Coding Clubs
Cybersecurity and computer science are significant parts of TJ’s curriculum, and many applicants gain early exposure through CyberPatriot or school coding clubs. CyberPatriot is a national cybersecurity competition that teaches students about network defense, while coding clubs allow students to explore programming in languages like Python, Java, or Scratch.
These activities are not required but can help students develop technical skills that will be useful in TJ’s coursework. Some applicants also experiment with coding projects on their own, such as building websites or creating small games.
Math Competitions (MathCounts, AMC 8, MOEMS)
Many successful TJ applicants have experience with competitive math. MathCounts is a widely recognized middle school program that helps develop problem-solving skills, while the AMC 8 is a national math contest that introduces students to more advanced concepts.
Participation in math competitions shows strong quantitative skills, but students do not need to be top scorers to benefit from them. Engaging with challenging math problems can be valuable preparation for the TJ admissions test and curriculum.
eCybermission and Science Research Projects
Some students participate in STEM competitions like eCybermission, a program where students work on real-world science and engineering challenges. Others work on independent or school-sponsored research projects, sometimes presenting their findings at local or regional science fairs.
While independent research is not necessary for admission, having experience designing experiments and analyzing data can show scientific curiosity, which aligns with TJ’s academic environment.
What If You’re Not In These Activities?
Not every applicant participates in formal STEM clubs or competitions, and that’s okay. Admissions officers look for students who have a passion for learning and problem-solving, regardless of where that interest comes from.
If a school doesn’t offer STEM clubs, students can still explore their interests in other ways, such as:
Taking online coding courses (e.g., Python, Scratch, Java)
Working on a science or engineering project at home
Reading books or watching documentaries about space, engineering, or medical science
At the end of the day, TJ admissions is about academic potential and intellectual curiosity. Being in a club isn’t a requirement—what matters is developing a strong foundation in math, science, and problem-solving.
Final Thoughts
While extracurriculars alone won’t determine admission to TJ, they can help reinforce a student’s passion for STEM. Some of the most common activities among successful applicants include:
TSA
MathCounts and AMC 8
Science Olympiad
Robotics (FLL, VEX, FTC, FRC)
CyberPatriot and coding clubs
There’s no single “right” activity—students should choose what interests them the most. Depth of engagement is more important than doing many different clubs. The best way to prepare for TJ is to develop strong problem-solving skills and a genuine love for STEM.
FAQ
1. Do extracurriculars actually matter for TJ admissions?
Extracurriculars are not required for TJHSST admissions, but they can show a student’s genuine interest in STEM. The application process focuses more on academic ability, problem-solving skills, and essays. However, involvement in STEM activities can help reinforce a strong application.
2. What if my school doesn’t have these clubs?
That’s okay! Many accepted students self-study STEM topics or pursue independent projects. You can try coding online, designing experiments at home, or entering virtual STEM competitions. Some students also find programs through local libraries, museums, or university outreach programs.
3. Which STEM activity is the most valuable for TJ admissions?
There isn’t one "best" activity, as quality is dependent upon how you engage with the activitiy itself. However, the competitions listed above tend are some of the most common among TJ students. If your interests align with TJ’s curriculum (computer science, engineering, advanced math, science), that’s a good sign.
4. How can I make my extracurriculars stand out if I’m not winning competitions?
TJ does not expect middle schoolers to be competition champions. What matters is consistent involvement and curiosity. If you’re in a club, try to actively contribute, whether by helping a team, exploring side projects, or learning more on your own.
5. Will being in too many clubs hurt my application?
TJ is looking for depth, not just a long list of activities. It’s better to be deeply involved in 1-2 activities rather than lightly participating in many. If you enjoy multiple STEM subjects, focus on the ones you’re most passionate about.
6. Can I still get into TJ if I have zero extracurriculars?
Yes. The quality of your SPS (Student Portrait Sheet) and Math Science Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) matter more than the names of your extracurriculars. If you show strong problem-solving skills and a passion for STEM in your essays and application (perhaps via in-school activities), you can get in without any clubs. However, having some STEM experience helps make writing about your interests easier.
7. What should I do if I’m in 6th or 7th grade and planning ahead?
Start exploring STEM in a way that excites you! Try different activities, such as coding, math puzzles, engineering challenges, or science experiments. See if your school has clubs like TSA, MathCounts, or Science Olympiad. If not, look for online or local programs. The goal is to build skills and curiosity over time.
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