Summer Plans That Make a Difference

Parents, let’s talk about summer. While it’s a time for your teen to relax and recharge, it’s also an incredible opportunity to build a college application that stands out. But not all summer activities are created equal. Some can significantly enhance their profile, while others might do little to move the needle.

Here’s what you need to know about making the most of the summer months.

Why Summer Matters for College Applications

Colleges are looking for students who use their time intentionally. Summer provides a chance to:

1. Showcase Passions and Interests: Whether it’s through a summer job, internship, or specialized academic program, the activities your teen chooses should align with their interests and long-term goals.
2. Build Leadership Skills: Leadership isn’t just about titles. It’s about taking initiative, solving problems, and working collaboratively—qualities colleges love.
3. Create a Compelling Story: Admissions officers are drawn to students with unique, authentic stories. Summer experiences can provide the foundation for an essay or interview answer that’s truly memorable.

Activities That Add Value

Here are some summer opportunities that can help your teen stand out:

1. Summer Jobs: Working at a local business, whether it’s an ice cream shop or a retail store, teaches responsibility and interpersonal skills.
2. Internships: These provide exposure to potential career paths and demonstrate a willingness to explore new opportunities.
3. Academic Programs: Discipline-specific programs at colleges or organizations can deepen your teen’s knowledge in a subject area they’re passionate about.
4. Community Service: Civic engagement shows compassion and a commitment to making a difference.
5. Cultural Experiences: Teen tours or study-abroad programs expose students to new perspectives and build independence.

What to Avoid

Not all summer activities are created equal. Avoid:

1. Generic Camps: Unless they align with a specific passion or goal, they might not add much value.
2. Programs at Colleges for Name Recognition: Simply attending a program at a prestigious school won’t guarantee an admissions boost.
3. Overloading: Summer shouldn’t be so packed that your teen feels burned out.

How to Plan Now

Start early to ensure your teen’s summer activities are intentional and well-organized. Here’s how:

1. Assess Their Interests: What excites your teen? What are their strengths? Use these as a guide.
2. Research Opportunities: Explore local jobs, internships, or programs that align with their goals. Summermatch.me is a fantastic resource to find tailored options.
3. Set Goals: Determine what you want the summer to accomplish—whether it’s skill-building, career exploration, or academic growth.
4. Document Experiences: Encourage your teen to keep a journal or portfolio of their summer activities. This can be a valuable tool for essays and applications.

The College Application Action Plan

Feeling overwhelmed? That’s where we come in. Our College Application Action Plan provides personalized guidance to help your teen:

• Select summer activities that align with their goals.
• Craft a standout story for their applications.
• Develop a strategy to make their entire college application process seamless.

We’ll take the guesswork out of planning so you and your teen can feel confident about their future.

Make This Summer Count

Summer isn’t just a break; it’s an opportunity to shine. By choosing the right activities, your teen can grow as a student, leader, and individual—all while building a compelling college application.

Join The College Application Action Plan Today and give your teen the tools to succeed.

Ready to Get Started?