There are many valuable ways students can spend their summer, as it’s an excellent time to continue building on meaningful extracurricular involvement.  Summer allows for opportunities that perhaps students do not have time for during the school year, or when students can dive into something new as they explore their interests. No matter how you spend your summer, the most important thing is to make it count!

What are a few ways to maximize your summer?

• Summer Programs: Please note that these can be costly and competitive, but they are a good way for students to learn skills outside the classroom, get a taste of college life, and build knowledge in their field of interest. Deadlines can be as early as now, so be aware of when deadlines are and what is required to apply. 
• Getting a Job: Gaining work experience is a great way to build useful skills. The earnings will likely come in handy as well!
• Internships or Shadowing Experience: Internships are another excellent way to learn more about your chosen field. Since they can be harder to come by, consider a shadowing experience as well. There is more than one way to gain knowledge and skills.
• Volunteering: Volunteer/community service experience is common during the school year, but you can extend your volunteering into the summer months or try something new.
• Taking Summer Classes: Community college classes or other outside institutions offer a variety of classes that students can take over the summer, including remotely. Perhaps you are looking to supplement your school year schedule, or your high school does not offer a particular course you are interested in; consider taking outside coursework over the summer, and even earn college credit!
• Personal Project: If there is something you are passionate about, you do not need to wait to start! Personal projects can be simple, connecting your interests with the broader community. You can create a blog, website, small business, podcast, etc. The options are endless. Traveling this summer? You can make more of that travel experience by implementing a project wherever you may be.
• College Visits: Even though fewer students are on campus over the summer, plan a few college visits, especially if you are a rising senior. We understand it can be harder to find the time when school is in session, so make the most of any extra time you may have over the summer to visit a few more campuses. You will thank yourself for this later on in your college process.
• Leisure: Yes, it’s OK to enjoy your summer too!

Bonus if you are a rising Senior:

Rising seniors will further build their college list and work on the Common Application personal statement. Most college applications will open on August 1st, but there is plenty to do to help you get ahead and minimize stress when you return to school in the Fall. 

If you have questions about your summer plans, be sure to connect with your Campus Bound College Counselor to help!