Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes many questions from our clients about how students should be using their time most constructively during the summer in order to achieve their college goals.
Admissions officers are fully aware that the school year is a very busy time filled with normal academic requirements, homework, and sports. But they also know that summer is a completely different story—a three-month stretch when video games and pool parties can be the most pressing concerns of the day. Of course summer should include some fun and relaxation, but at Elite Academics, we don’t want to see students waste the opportunity presented by all of this free time.
So our #1 recommendation to sophomore and junior high school students who are beginning to plan their summers? Get a job!
Most college applications will include sections asking about extracurriculars, community service, and work experience. All too often, we work with students who have to leave that last category completely blank. These are smart, hardworking kids who have been busy with school, sports, and other commitments. But we believe that job experience is an important element of a successful college application (and a good experience for life in general, too!) and should be made a priority.
Considerations for Choosing a Summer Job
What About Community Service?
We also highly recommend that high school students (particularly sophomores and juniors, but this is definitely a great thing to start as a freshman, too) engage in community service in the summer.
Ultimately, our advice is to use your extra time well during the summer. And don’t worry—there will still be time for the pool.
***
The Elite Academics Guide to Summer Vacation will continue through the month of May. Stay tuned for tips on taking college courses over the summer (for graduating seniors) and when to take the ACT/SAT (for incoming juniors).