Abstract
The main purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of the students in doing after school activities, the challenges, coping strategies, and the benefits in doing it. Phenomenological study design was employed in this study. Data was collected through a semi-structured interview and non – guided interview. The findings of the study revealed that students find it beneficial to engage in after school activities as it helps them gain new knowledge and learnings, enhance their talents and skills, gain more confidence, become physically active, and helps build or improve teamwork, camaraderie and socialization skills. The result of this study also show that students who engaged in many after school activities find themselves struggling to balance their time due to hectic schedule which resulted as getting tired. Thus, valuing the importance of rest, prioritizing the important things, and creating an environment that fosters healthy communication with peers, parents, teachers, mentors, and other stakeholders as students’ way to help cope with the challenges are recommended. Other coping strategies reflected on the findings include making lots of friends, motivating oneself, and thinking after school activities as fun.
