The summer before senior year is the perfect time to get a head start on preparing for college. Between balancing college applications, academics, and personal life, senior year can feel uncontrollable. Therefore, taking advantage of the months before school starts will help you ease into the process and set yourself up for success. Here are five essential things you can do this summer to prepare for college:
1. Begin Your College Essays:
College applications, combined with the workload of senior year, can be frustrating. That is why writing your college essays early can be beneficial. Since the Common App has kept its essay prompts from last year, you can start brainstorming and drafting your personal statement now. This gives you plenty of time to revise and refine your essays without the stress of imminent deadlines. You should consider seeking feedback from teachers, classmates, or even family members who can offer constructive perspectives on your writing. Starting early means you can write an essay that truly reflects who you are.
2. Spend Time with Your Family and Friends:
If you plan to attend college out-of-state—or even in-state but far from home—it is important to spend time with loved ones. I’m not saying you will not be able to communicate with them once you move to college, but it will not be as easy as it is now. Spending time with family and friends this summer will help you build stronger bonds in those relationships before life gets busier. Whether it’s planning small trips, having movie nights, or simply enjoying conversations over dinner, these moments will become esteemed memories when you’re away at school.
3. Get an Internship or Summer Job:
Choosing a major or career can be a scary decision, and trying out potential pathways through a temporary job is one of the greatest—if not the best—ways to see if they are a good fit for you. I encourage you to try to get an internship or summer job in an area of interest. Whether or not you end up pursuing that career, the skills you learn will be helpful. Internships provide skill development, networking opportunities, and make your resume more competitive. Similarly, by taking part in a summer work experience, you save money for college expenditures and get financial knowledge. Any experience that one earns is useful, and anything learned will lead to better personal and professional development.
4. Visit College Campuses:
Before deciding which college you want to go to, it’s important to visit campuses (if possible) to get a feel for the environment. Walking around a college campus can help you visualize yourself there and determine if it’s the right fit. Pay attention to the surrounding area, dorms, academic buildings, and student culture. If in-person visits are not an option for you due to financial or scheduling reasons, don’t worry—many schools offer virtual tours through their websites or platforms like Naviance. Virtual visits can still provide valuable insights into a college’s atmosphere and offerings.
5. Learn Domestic Skills:
Moving to college is a hard and thought-provoking transition, and one of the biggest adjustments is living independently. This summer is a great time to develop key life skills that will make college life smoother. Learn how to cook simple meals, do laundry, clean your living space, and manage your time effectively. If you’ve never had to budget your own money before, consider practicing with a set amount to get used to handling finances. Keep in mind that these skills are about being self-sufficient and prepared for the realities of living away from home.
