From the Student’s Perspective: Why After School Programs Matter

After-school programs are more than just a place to go when the school day ends— they're a space where students connect, grow, and prepare for their futures. Olympus High School has been part of the Real Life Program since 2017, and supports anywhere from 20-30 refugee and immigrant students each year. Since its beginning, Real Life has offered these students some of their first experiences in service and volunteerism, fun activities, or even financial education. Field trips, for instance, are often a favorite part of the experience. Sarah, a 9th grader, remembers the excitement of learning how to dissect sea turtles during one outing, and the joy of going on adventures with friends. Heaton, a junior, recalls the fun of bowling and competing with others, while Aaliyah was one of many who tackled their first escape room, a challenge that pushed her in unexpected ways.

These kinds of shared experiences help students break out of their shells and form bonds with others. Luis, a senior, reflected on how the program helped him go from being quiet to becoming more open with the people around him. He said, “You can meet someone for the first time, and they might end up being a lifelong friend.” Mikaylie, a freshman, expressed something similar, saying her social life has grown and that the program has become a source of comfort. “If you’re having a rough day, you’ll almost always feel better. It’s like a big family.”

At the same time, these programs equip students with skills they carry with them beyond when the school year ends. Ashley, a freshman who started with Real Life back in 6th grade, said that the financial literacy class taught her about using debit cards and managing money. Mariah, a sophomore, talked about the value of working with younger students from different backgrounds and personalities. Building piñatas and doing creative projects with primary-aged learners helped her learn how to talk with others in meaningful ways, something that doesn’t always come easily in a traditional classroom.

And that sense of preparation isn’t strictly limited to soft skills. Aaliyah noted how after-school programs can help students think seriously about their next steps, whether in school or in a career. Gansly, who’s been part of the program for a little over four years, shared how staff members support students with homework and planning. He used to try to do everything alone, but team-building activities taught him the importance of collaboration and communication. He’s even wanted to take charge and lead games in the program.

The common thread running through each student’s experience is the powerful impact of community. Mariah called it a “very good environment,” a place where making new friends feels natural. Sarah appreciated how inclusive it felt, and said it truly tries to include everyone. For Luis, it has become a second home—a place filled with people you can talk to and trust. And much of this can be attributed to the wonderful staff that provide this inclusive and supportive environment. Jaeden, the staff who partners with Youthlinc through Asian Association of Utah, comes to the program every day ready to initiate progress plans that support student’s success both in and out of the classroom. And they have nothing but good things to say about him. They even go so far as to call him their friend.

Again and again, students described the program not just as a supplement to their final years of secondary education, but as a source of joy, belonging, and transformation. As Mikaylie put it, “It brings people up.” Whether they’re learning, laughing, or simply spending time together, students are finding more than after-school activities—they’re discovering a place that helps them thrive.

Beyond Olympus High School, Youthlinc supported 14 different sites during the 2024-2025 school year, and Olympus isn’t the only school that reflects some of these powerful and diverse experiences. Schools like Evergreen Jr., and William Penn Elementary have seen the impact of engaging with these kids and preparing them for their lives ahead. After-school programs are incredibly significant in the social, intellectual, and professional development of our youth. These kids grow up to be civically engaged, empathetic, and intelligent citizens, no matter where they end up. Supporting programs like Real Life isn’t just a way to fill time -- it’s fundamental to the success of our student’s futures.