Making the Most of Your Summer Before Senior Year
So it’s May, and you’re not sure what to do this summer…
In the world of college admissions, there can be some perceived pressure to use your summers to do something unconventional. Students may feel that they need to secure an internship at a Fortune 100 company, create a hit podcast, develop a vaccine, etc. It’s wonderful if you end up doing any of those things, but achievements of that scale are not necessary to find success in the admissions process. If you’re not sure what to do when summer comes around, here are some things to consider:
Find a job
When in doubt, a part-time job is a great way to spend your summer. Whether it be at a grocery store, coffee shop, local recreation department, or (un-airconditioned) screenprinting shop, a part-time job is a great way to develop a new skill, meet people you otherwise would not, and save up money for things like club dues, college applications, or a senior trip! Working is a great way to practice time management, communication, and building relationships with people from different backgrounds or age groups than you, all of which are relevant in the college admissions process.
Study for the SAT or ACT
Standardized testing policies have evolved significantly over the past few years. Many institutions, including Tufts, have maintained test-optional policies. That means if you would like us to consider your exam results, we will do so in a nuanced and contextual way. If you choose not to submit exam results, we will evaluate your candidacy in a nuanced, context-based way without scores. Evidence of academic preparation and potential for success in an applicant's intended area of study is essential for admission to Tufts, and, when considered with other components of the application, an applicant’s test score can provide some evidence of academic preparation (we generally encourage applicants with scores of 1300 or higher on the SAT, or 28 or higher on the ACT to include those scores).
The summer is a great time to take some time to take a few practice exams, consider registering for an upcoming SAT or ACT test date, and consider whether you want standardized test scores to be a part of your college application. Practice is a great way to familiarize yourself with these exams and determine which one might be best for you. The College Board and ACT both offer free practice resources (SAT Test Prep, ACT Test Prep). If the cost of these tests is a barrier for you, I recommend checking out their fee waiver programs (SAT Fee Waivers, ACT Fee Waivers).
Dedicate time to your academic and extracurricular interests
With fewer school-related conflicts and commitments, the summer is an ideal time to explore your academic and personal interests. You can do this independently by reading books, taking free online courses, or working on your 5k time to make the cross-country team. You can also find community through exploring your interests! Many universities, including Tufts, offer pre-college programs. The programs give you the opportunity to connect with faculty, meet other students with similar interests, and familiarize yourself with the residential community available on a college campus. You may also want to check out art, outdoor, and athletic camps offered at your local community centers and recreation departments.
Engage with your community
Civic engagement is a big part of life at Tufts, and many members of our community have an interest in giving back to the communities they belong to. If you’re not sure what to do this summer, consider volunteering your time through community service. There are many non-profit organizations across the country in need of support, and volunteer opportunities are a great way to contribute. I recommend reaching out to local animal shelters, food banks, faith-based organizations, and organizations like the Y and Boys & Girls Club to see what volunteering opportunities are available in your community.
Enjoy yourself!
For many students, the last few summers of high school are the periods with the least responsibility. That means you should have fun during the summer. Make sure that you’re spending time with the people that you care about, get outside and enjoy the warm weather, and consider taking breaks from Instagram and Reddit for at least a little while.