8 Ways to Boost Your College Applications this Summer!
Summer is the perfect time to relax, recharge, and make some major moves toward your future. Sure, Netflix binges and sleeping in are tempting, but sprinkling in some enriching activities can set you up for success when it comes to college applications—and life in general. Let’s dive into some amazing ways to spend some time this summer.
Get a Summer Job
A summer job is a total win-win. Not only do you earn some cash, but you also get hands-on experience in the working world. Whether you’re babysitting, lifeguarding, coaching, or waiting tables, a summer job can teach you responsibility, leadership, and teamwork—not to mention give you great material for your college essays.
You might even discover a career path you love—or one to avoid (i.e. retail may not be your lifelong passion). Bonus points for the friendships and skills you’ll pick up along the way.
Explore Internships
If you’re curious about a specific career path, internships can give you an insider look. While they’re more common for college students, high school internships are out there—you just have to dig a little. Here’s how to start:
Ask your parents or family friends if they know of opportunities.
Chat with your guidance counselor.
Search on websites like LinkedIn or Indeed.
Check out the career sections of companies in fields that interest you.
Emblem Insight: Even a short internship can give you a big-picture view of a career—and help you decide if it’s a good fit.
Try Shadowing
Can’t snag an internship? No problem—shadowing is another great option. Spend a few days following a professional to see what their day-to-day life is like. For example, one student shadowed a physical therapist for three days and realized they really didn’t like touching people’s feet. Career crisis averted!
To get started, reach out to someone in a field you’re passionate about. Most people are happy to share their expertise, and you’ll gain valuable insights (and maybe even a mentor).
Dive into a Passion Project
Whatever you’re passionate about, whether it’s music, cooking, fixing cars, building things, selling things, drawing, making jewelry, thrift shopping, or computers– summer is the ideal time to put more time into it. Even more than students who have a wide variety of interests, colleges today are looking for students who are passionately involved in one or two interests and pursue them in more than one way. Here are a couple examples:
If you play the drums for the Jazz Band at school, deepen that interest by also forming a band outside of school, record some of your performances and put them on You Tube, create a social media account to promote your band, or teach younger children how to play the drums. See how that shows initiative and passion way beyond just having the activity “Jazz Band” on your Activities List of your application?
If you’re into technology, maybe it’s time to build your own computer, learn a programming language, teach senior citizens at a retirement home how to use newer technology, or program your own app.
Think of your interest or hobby as a garden – summer is the time to water that garden and watch it grow!
Enroll in a Pre-College Program
Ready to try out college life before the real deal? Many colleges offer summer programs where you can dive deep into a subject you’re passionate about, like robotics, creative writing, or art history. These programs typically last a few weeks and let you live on campus, attend classes, and work with professors.
While they can be pricey, the experience is worth it—unparalleled access to academics, a taste of independence, and another boost for your college applications.
Give Back with Community Service
Community service is a win for everyone. You get to make a difference while gaining new skills, perspective, and maybe even career ideas. Plus, colleges love to see a commitment to giving back.
Start by checking with your guidance counselor or local organizations like food banks, animal shelters, senior centers, or museums. Whether you’re organizing a food drive or helping with park cleanups, you’ll walk away with a sense of accomplishment—and some great college essay material.
Travel with Purpose
If you’re lucky enough to travel, don’t just stick to your hotel pool. Make the most of it!
Explore the local culture—try the food, visit museums, and take tours.
Look up from your phone (for real).
Be adventurous—go on that hike or bike ride!
Keep a journal or start a travel blog (which, by the way, looks great on applications).
Travel expands your horizons and teaches you about the world—and yourself. Every experience becomes part of your story.
Visit Colleges
Summer is also a fantastic time to visit potential colleges. Sure, campuses may not be bustling, but you can still take tours, explore the facilities, and start picturing yourself there.
Road trips can help you see multiple schools in one go—think Boston, where you can tour several campuses in and around the city. Just make sure to check each school’s website for tour availability before heading out.
Make your Summer Count
While it’s important to recharge, don’t let the summer slip by without adding something meaningful to the mix. Whether you’re working a summer job, volunteering, shadowing a professional, or exploring colleges, these experiences will enrich your life—and boost your college applications.
The extra time you have this summer is a gift. Use it wisely, and you’ll thank yourself later.