Making the Most of Summer: How High Schoolers Can Prepare for College

It’s August already, and for most high school students, that means the final stretch of summer break! While there’s still time to relax and recharge, it’s also a great opportunity to start laying the groundwork for future college success. A little planning now can go a long way later.

If you're wondering how to balance fun and productivity this summer, here are some simple yet effective activities that can help high schoolers prepare for their college journey:

Journal Your Thoughts

Journaling is a powerful way for students to reflect on their past school year, learning style, strengths, challenges, and dreams for the future. These reflections can be incredibly helpful when it comes time to write college essays or make important decisions about their academic and career paths.

Explore a Dream Job

Have your student think about their ideal job, and then explore it further. Whether through an informal conversation or a more structured informational interview, talking to professionals in that field can offer valuable insights. Understanding the day-to-day responsibilities, as well as the required skills, can help students determine if this career path may be the right fit for them. In addition, exploring related careers in the same industry can open up new possibilities that they might not have considered before.

Read for Pleasure

School assignments might be on pause, but that doesn’t mean reading has to stop! Summer is the perfect opportunity to read just for fun. The more students read, the more they expand their vocabulary and comprehension skills. This not only prepares them for college-level coursework but also exposes them to new ideas, diverse perspectives, and critical thinking skills that are essential in higher education.

Improve Typing Skills

Strong keyboarding skills are essential, especially in our digital world. Encourage students to practice proper typing techniques, moving away from "hunt and peck" methods. Improving speed and accuracy now will pay off in high school, college, and beyond.

Visit Colleges (Even Casually)

Whether traveling near or far, take time to explore college campuses along the way. Visiting schools—formally or informally—can help students start to figure out what kind of campus environment (urban, suburban, large, small) feels right for them. It’s also a chance to learn more about the application process, what colleges look for, and which programs spark their interest.

Dive Into a Passion

Summer is a great time for students to take a deep dive into something they are truly passionate about. Whether it's a hobby, a part-time job, or a volunteer opportunity, focusing on something they love can be both fulfilling and enlightening. With fewer school responsibilities, they can engage more meaningfully and gain experience that can shape future goals—or even become part of a college application story.

Summer is the perfect mix of downtime and opportunity. With just a little intention, students can enjoy their break while also taking small but meaningful steps toward their future.

Confident College Planning helps students identify their core interests and competencies, and assists with the alignment between their career options and the many college choices available. If you would like professional guidance for the critical milestones and best practice insights into the college planning process, contact Nancy at confidentcollegeplanning@gmail.com to schedule a consultation!

Making the Most of Summer: How High Schoolers Can Prepare for College