4 Ways to Use Summer Vacation to Boost Your College Prospects

Summer vacation is the perfect time for a little rest and relaxation – and a bit of college prep.

Yes, you read that correctly. While summer break is a well-deserved rest from the usual high school grind, it’s also a golden opportunity to strengthen your future college application and educational prospects. Here’s how you can make the most of your summer break when your eye is on the future:

1. Enroll in Summer Programs or Camps

Many universities and colleges offer summer programs for high school students. Programs can range from academic courses to specialized camps in fields like robotics, creative writing or environmental science.

Participating in these programs shows admissions officers that you’re intellectually curious and committed to learning beyond the standard curriculum – so feel free to experiment. Pick something you know you love or something you’re merely curious about. There’s no wrong move here, as long as you can throw yourself into the work with enthusiasm.

2. Get Involved in Community Service

Are you interested in making a meaningful impact on your local community? Do you want to show your desire to be a positive force in this world? Consider volunteering your services and time to a cause you generally care about – whether that’s working at a wildlife rescue, reading books to kids at the library or helping out at the local food bank.

This is actually something that you can build on over time, which will show the college admissions board your ability to commit. If you start your volunteer service early in your high school career, you may even move into a leadership position over time, further demonstrating your strength of character.

3. Apply for an Internship or Get a Job

Colleges are legitimately impressed when a student has good grades, stellar SAT/ACT scores and actual work experience – so consider applying for an internship at a non-profit or looking for a job that will give you real-world exposure in your field of interest.

If you can’t find a formal opportunity, consider networking through your parents and relatives to see if you can score a chance to “shadow” someone for a few weeks in their career. That will give you a clearer idea of what the field is really like and (possibly) open the door to a more concrete position.

4. Create Your Own Research Project

Do you already know where your passion lies? Are you itching to explore a particular subject in more depth? Let your interests guide you into a summer-long independent study and research project.

Are you looking to solve the problem of microplastics in water? Is there a medical issue that puzzles you? Do you want to know what it takes to write, illustrate and self-publish your own children’s story? With a little guidance, you can turn a passion project into a very compelling aspect of your college application.

Colleges have always looked for well-rounded students who are capable of showing tremendous initiative, personal drive, commitment and passion – so make this summer count toward your college admission journey. You won’t regret the effort when the time comes to submit those early applications next year.