Aaron Andrikopoulos • June 20, 2025
For high school students gearing up for college applications, summer break offers an opportunity to strengthen their extra-curriculars list, identify ways to express their interest and passions, develop new skills, and gain important experience. In this blog, we’ll explore how to leverage the summer in the best way possible to help students distinguish themselves in the college admissions process.
1. Ensure your Summer Efforts Help Strengthen Your Personal Narrative and What You Want Colleges to Know About You!
Using the summer to emphasize what you want colleges to know about you is an essential part of the application and admissions process. Activities that highlight your personal narrative and show a clear passion for your intended major(s) are key. Emphasizing this important narrative is a powerful component of your college application by giving admissions officers insight into your passions and intended educational pursuits.
For example, if you intend to apply for pre-med programs, a productive summer will be one that favors activities, programs, and volunteer efforts focusing on medical or foundational STEM work. This could include volunteering at a local hospital, interning at a research lab, shadowing a medical professional, or even participating in a medically-focused summer camp. These activities not only help you learn more about the medical profession and important aspects, but also show your passion for medicine and caring for others.
Remember, it’s important to choose activities that reflect your unique interests and aspirations, rather than simply trying to check specific “boxes”. Showing your true self is crucial, and admissions officers can often discern when a student is genuinely passionate about their activities versus when they are simply trying to tell colleges what they think colleges want to hear.
2. Identifying and Participating in “In the Field” Opportunities and Skill Development
Activities most appreciated by colleges are ones that provide stimulating “in the field” opportunities and teach relevant new skills. Colleges appreciate experiences that allow students to demonstrate initiative, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
Consider seeking out opportunities like internships, etc, in your area of interest, participating in research projects, or even starting something completely on your own that shows your passion for the major or area of focus. These experiences often require dedication as far as time and energy, which is an excellent way to demonstrate your passion, maturity, and readiness for college-level work.
These experiences can help you develop important skills that are relevant to your intended field of study. For example, an internship at a finance firm could help you hone your statistics prowess, while organizing a fundraising event could improve your project management and communication skills.
3. Seeking Out Internships and Other Programs
Competitive programs, like university-hosted summer programs or professional internships, are difficult to get into, but these opportunities can make a significant impact in your admissions. They often offer unique exposure to a field, allowing you to learn from experts, collaborate with others who share your passions, and gain an understanding of what a career in that field might entail.
That said, many students create impactful, impressive portfolios through local or self-initiated projects, volunteer work, or part-time jobs, so you can get creative! The goal is not just to have a prestigious name on your application, but to demonstrate passion, commitment, growth, and learning.
Lastly: Intentional Choices and Balance
In the end, an intentional choice will always be more productive than one selected to fill time, and balance will always be more favorable to you than mindless busywork. While it’s important to pursue challenging experiences, remember that rest and relaxation are also essential. Don’t sacrifice your wellbeing for the sake of your resume. Don’t forget to enjoy your summer too!
Invest your time in activities that you truly care about, align with your academic and career goals, and provide opportunities for growth and learning. Use your summer not just to build an impressive activities list, but to explore your passions, learn new skills, and grow as an individual. Remember, college admissions officers are not just looking for accomplished students; they’re looking for well-rounded individuals with a passion for learning and a commitment to making a difference.