Senior Summer
If you haven’t already, sign up and take the SAT or ACT. Taking it in your junior year insures that you have time to retake the exam if you do poorly the first time. This test is important, no explanation needed, so devote a lot of time and effort to preparing for it.
Link: SAT
If you haven’t already, sign up and take the SAT II subject tests. These are required by virtually all top colleges and are an important factor in their decisions. The good news is that you can choose which subject tests to take, so pick subjects that you are interested in and good at. Make sure to put time and effort into studying.
Link: SAT II Subject Tests
Do research on colleges. By the end of summer, you should have a good idea of the list of colleges that you will be applying to.
Link: College Information
Participate in a camp or summer program. These are usually great experiences that also serve to give you a better idea of your interests while building your resume.
Link: Summer programs
Look for a job and/or an internship. Both are good experiences as well as resume builders. Plus, it never hurts with a job or paid internship to have a little extra cash.
Link: Job
Link: Internship
It’s summer again, so use some of your time to search and compete for scholarships. There are thousands of scholarships offered every year, most of which require a simple application and essay to compete in. Improve your writing abilities, win accomplishments for your resume, and earn money at the same time.
Link: Scholarships
If you haven’t already, make a full resume. You will need to give this to colleges, job recruiters, and teachers who you want letters of recommendation from.
Link: How to write a Resume
Link: Recommendation Letters
It is also a good idea to take classes over the summer at your local state university or community college. These classes often count for credit at your high school and/or can be counted for credit when you go to college. They are also a good resume builder because they show your academic competence at college level courses. Lastly, because you can choose from a wide array of classes, you can pursue your interests and become more knowledgeable and skilled.
Link: College Classes
