Here are eight impactful summer experiences that I recommend for high school students (especially rising seniors!) looking to make the most of their break, strengthen their college applications, and gain valuable skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1) Take a summer class or enroll in a pre-college program.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Enrolling in a course, especially in your field of interest, is a great way to explore your career goals, and it shows colleges that you are dedicated to expanding your knowledge of a particular subject area.
Look for course offerings at your high school, local community college, or even through an online program. Not only could these courses help you academically and prepare you for high school honors or AP courses, but they might also help boost your overall GPA. This can help you to show colleges that you\u2019re dedicated to learning new things or improving your academic resume. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Signing up for a college prep program<\/a> is another great way to explore your field of interest and, in some cases, get a feel for college life. But you need to register for these programs early! Many deadlines are in the winter\/spring, so this might be something younger students can keep an eye out for next year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n College admission officers love to see applicants who demonstrate work ethic, responsibility, and initiative by holding a summer job, or even a part-time job during the school year. Added bonus \u2013 you can make a little extra cash for those college expenses by working as a lifeguard at the community pool or as a camp counselor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting your own small business, like a lawn company, is a great way to show your entrepreneurial interests, creativity, and dedication. Colleges love to see students who take initiative in their interests, whether that means diving deeper into a passion or exploring something entirely new. Engaging in meaningful extracurricular activities helps build your college narrative and can even provide inspiration for application essays. Community service isn\u2019t just about fulfilling required hours; it\u2019s about making a real difference while showcasing your dedication and leadership. Colleges value students who commit to causes they truly care about. While the ideal time for a campus visit<\/a> is during the school year when classes are in session, busy schedules can make that difficult. Summer is still a great opportunity to explore colleges on your list. Check out local colleges or plan a trip to see your dream school. Walking the campus, visiting key buildings, and speaking with admissions staff can give you a feel for the school beyond what brochures and websites can provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you can\u2019t swing an in-person visit, you can still get started by researching universities online to learn about their programs, campus life, and admissions process. Many colleges also offer virtual tours to give you a closer look. Additionally, you can reach out to alumni for firsthand insights from those who have experienced the school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some college applications don\u2019t come out until August, but if the colleges your child plans to apply to use the Common App<\/a>, they can create their account and start working on the application now. A professional resume is essential for both college applications and your future career. Many colleges request a resume as part of the application process, so it should highlight your most significant high school achievements and experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Colleges value consistency over the four years. Rather than listing many sporadic activities or a few hours of service, focus on the extracurriculars and volunteer work you\u2019ve been consistently involved in. It’s not about the quantity but the depth of your commitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While many colleges remain test-optional, the data shows that students with strong SAT or ACT scores often have an edge over those without test scores at many selective and highly selective schools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Rising juniors and seniors who plan to take a test soon can study with a test prep book, schedule weekly group study sessions with friends, or for the most effective method- sign up for one-on-one test prep tutoring<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Putting testing and registration dates on your calendar will help you feel more organized and ensure you won\u2019t miss those SAT or ACT registration deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s important to keep in mind that students do not need to engage in every activity on the above list! It\u2019s about balance and what works best for you. Summer is also a time for some much needed rest and relaxation. The earlier you start planning, the easier it will be to balance your college prep with time to enjoy your break before the next school year begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A lot of thought should go into the college application process, and it should start well before your senior year of high school. If you want to get a head start this summer, or if you\u2019re feeling overwhelmed, or like you waited too long to get started on your journey to college, our college consulting team<\/a> can help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n2) Get a summer job, shadow a professional (or even start a small business!).<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"make](\"https:\/\/ectutoring.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/make-a-meaningful-summer-break-by-getting-a-summer-job.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
Job shadows are also great ways for students to gain practical skills and experience. While official internships can be hard to come by as a high school student, students can easily contact a family friend or local professional in their field of interest and ask to shadow them for a day or a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3) Explore new extracurriculars and continue engaging in activities you’re passionate about.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This summer, challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone. Pick up a new instrument, start a passion project, launch a blog, or explore cultural experiences in your city. The skills and insights you gain could shape your future in unexpected ways!<\/p>\n\n\n\n4) Volunteer your time. <\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"make](\"https:\/\/ectutoring.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/make-a-meaningful-summer-break-with-volunteering.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
Whether it\u2019s working at an animal shelter, mentoring younger students at a summer camp, participating in a beach cleanup, or helping with a local food drive, choose volunteer opportunities<\/a> that align with your passions. Not only will the experience be more fulfilling, but you\u2019ll also leave a lasting impression on the people you help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n5) Visit colleges (in-person or online).<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6) Get started on college applications and essays. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
During the spring, I have my juniors create their Common App accounts, and we get familiar with the process. The essay prompts are listed so students can get working on their essays early \u2013 freeing up more time for the fall of their senior year. Students have more time over the summer, without the demands of school and extracurricular activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7) Start building your high school resume. <\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"make](\"https:\/\/ectutoring.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/make-a-meaningful-summer-break-by-starting-college-applications.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n8) Focus on SAT\/ACT prep.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Not sure where to start?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Jen](\"https:\/\/ectutoring.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Jen-Foldvary-M.Ed_.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n