Making the Most of the Summer in High School: A Head Start On the College Application Process

Making the Most of the Summer: A Head Start on the College Application Process

Parents have been asking me recently what things to consider doing this upcoming summer for their high school students. The summer before junior year (and even sophomore year) is the perfect time for high school students to take a proactive step toward their college goals. While it’s tempting to spend the entire summer relaxing, this period is actually one of the most important for laying the groundwork for the college application process. With a little planning and a few strategic steps, students can reduce future stress and get ahead of the competition.

1. Start Exploring Colleges and Majors

The college application process can feel overwhelming, but it becomes much more manageable when you have a clear idea of the types of colleges and programs you’re interested in. Use this summer to research different types of schools—large universities, liberal arts colleges, in-state and out-of-state options. Make a list of schools that appeal to you and start learning about their admissions requirements, campus culture, and programs of study.

If you’re unsure about what you want to major in, that’s okay! This is a great time to explore your interests. Try free online courses, volunteer opportunities, or job shadowing experiences that might inspire your future path.

2. Build a College Resume

Your resume will be a key component of the college application process. This summer, begin compiling your achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer hours, awards, and any work experience. Don’t worry if it’s not long yet—sophomore and junior year are full of opportunities to expand it. What matters now is having a document that you can add to and refine over time.

3. Plan for Standardized Tests

While many colleges have gone test-optional, standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are still an important part of the college application process for many schools and scholarships. Use this summer to take a practice test and identify areas for improvement. If you are a sophomore student, I highly recommend studying for the SAT this summer and taking the exam in fall. Click here for my blog post on: Whether or Not Your High School Student Should Take the SAT

4. Read, Write, and Reflect

Strong writing skills are essential for college essays. Use the summer to read widely and write often—journaling, blogging, or working on creative projects are all great ways to sharpen your writing. Reflecting on your personal experiences can also help you begin thinking about possible college essay topics.

5. Visit Campuses (In-Person or Virtually)

If possible, visit a few college campuses to get a feel for what you like and dislike in a school environment. Many colleges also offer virtual tours, which are a great alternative if travel isn’t feasible. These visits can help shape your college list and give you material for future application essays. If you're interested in learning more about college tours, read my post: College Tours: a Useful Tool in the College Application Cycle

6. Set Goals For the Next School Year

Finally, use this summer to set academic and personal goals for the upcoming school year. Junior year is typically the most rigorous academically, so having a plan in place can help you stay balanced and focused.

By using the summer before junior year to begin preparing for the college application process, students can reduce stress and gain clarity. A little effort now goes a long way toward a successful college journey.

Feel free to leave comments or contact me through Live Chat on this website for further questions on this topic.

Sincerely,

Dr. Medeeha Khan