What does 'extracurricular activities' exactly mean?

I've been hearing the term 'extracurricular activities' a lot lately. What does it exactly mean? Is there any difference between extracurriculars and hobbies? Do colleges view them differently? Just trying to get a clearer picture.

Respondent 1:

Extracurricular activities are opportunities for you to be involved in something outside your regular classroom studies. They can include clubs, sports teams, performing arts groups, volunteer work, part-time jobs, and even hobbies can qualify if they have a substantial impact on your skill development or contribute to your community.

Respondent 2:

Absolutely! Extracurriculars are a bit more structured and often involve leadership roles, teamwork, commitment, or initiative. For example, one might pursue a hobby like painting at home but when that painting is used for fundraising or you participate in art competitions or exhibitions, it becomes an extracurricular.

Respondent 3:

When it comes to college admissions, both extracurriculars and hobbies can be valuable for showing your passions, skills, and commitment. However, more structured extracurricular activities can demonstrate additional qualities, like leadership or teamwork. For instance, being a member of the Debate Club (an extracurricular activity) illustrates your ability to work with others, as well as your communication and critical thinking skills, while painting as a hobby may not necessarily provide the same evidence of these skills. To sum up: while hobbies can add personality to your application, extracurriculars often provide proof of more quantifiable skills and achievements.