How to Prepare for Summer?

AP Exams are almost behind us, summer is ahead—and now is the perfect time to prepare for it. Whether you’re just starting high school or heading into your senior year, summer offers a unique opportunity to focus on personal growth, exploration, and preparation for the college admissions journey. Here’s how students at each stage can make this summer count:

For Freshmen (Rising Sophomores):

Summer is the ideal time to reflect on subjects you enjoyed and areas you might want to explore further. Consider enrolling in a summer program—many universities and organizations offer introductory courses or workshops for high school students. These programs can expose you to new fields and help clarify what truly excites you.

For Sophomores (Rising Juniors):

Narrow down your academic and career interests and begin thinking about a capstone project.

Sophomore summer is the perfect time to lay the groundwork for a capstone or passion project. This kind of long-term, student-led initiative can be a powerful way to demonstrate your interests, leadership, and commitment to a cause or subject area.

Start by identifying a topic that genuinely matters to you—whether it’s scientific research, creative writing, coding, community service, environmental advocacy, or anything in between. Then brainstorm ways to turn that interest into a tangible project: launching a website, starting a podcast, conducting a survey, initiating a fundraiser, or building something from scratch.

The project doesn’t have to be completed over the summer; this is the time to develop a clear vision and start taking the first steps.

For Juniors (Rising Seniors):

Finalize your college list and work on essays.

This summer is critical for rising seniors. With application season just around the corner, now is the time to begin drafting your personal statement and supplemental essays. You have already spent time researching colleges: academic programs, campus culture, admissions requirements, and financial aid. Now it’s time to finalize your college list.

Complete any major project: a research project, leadership initiative, or internship – aim to finish it by the end of summer to present the results in your college application.

And the last, but not least important: don’t forget to relax and have fun! Happy Summer!!!