Insight Education - Summer Prep

Summer school

Community service

Internships

Study Abroad

Summer Job

Summer time is the perfect time for students to explore their passions and pursue the activities that interest them the most. The biggest mistake students can make is to just while away the summer. There are many opportunities for middle and high school students. With some planning and guidance, students can have fun and productive summers. Colleges are interested in what students do in their free time.

summer school
If you need to make up a class or want to jump ahead in high school, summer is a great time to do so. Many high schools have restrictions on which courses they will allow students to take. Honors and AP courses are not available during the summer time. Students can also enroll in courses at the local community college. Courses that are required for high school graduation can be transferred to the student’s high school transcript for graduation credit. Other courses will remain on the student’s college transcript, which will later be sent to colleges. Community colleges often offer a greater variety of courses and students can begin to explore. Courses such as psychology, law, organic chemistry and political science can give students exposure to the college courses. For students that are strong academically and already enrolled in rigorous academics at their high school may want to use summer to explore opportunities outside of academics.

community service
There are many opportunities for students to volunteer during the summer. When choosing a volunteer activity, students should look for options that are fun and interesting. Many of the popular community service opportunities fill up quickly so students should start to explore early in the Spring. Many non-profit agencies are eager to have volunteers and appreciate the enthusiasm of high school students. Be creative when weighing your options. If you love art, volunteer at an art school. If you love playing tennis, volunteer as a tennis coach at a Community Center. If you love to play an instrument, volunteer to teach young students about music.

internships
Internships are a great way for students to get exposure to research or academic work. Internships are often very selective and students should begin to research internships beginning in January. There are many established internship programs as well as opportunities with individual professors, graduate students, and organizations. Students can research immunology, study the genetics of wheat, research the impact of the Fourteenth Amendment on education or help map the brain. The experience of each student varies and it is often up to the student to make the most of the opportunity. Internships give students an insider’s perspective on lab work or academia.

Study Abroad
Study abroad programs give students the chance to travel and learn about different cultures and/or in different academic environments. Through these programs, students can volunteer at medical clinics in developing countries, take courses at Oxford University or immerse themselves in Spanish language and culture. There are a broad range of programs available.

summer job
Summer jobs allow students to make some money while also learning valuable like skills. Colleges often appreciate the qualities that are developed through employment. When choosing a summer job, look for positions that are fun and/or give you exposure to careers that interest you. Spend your paychecks wisely because colleges may ask what you have done with your earnings.

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