Best Summer Activities for College Admissions

December is almost here, and believe it or not, now is the perfect time to start planning a high school student’s summer chock full of the best summer activities for college admissions. Summer activities are more than just a break from school—they’re valuable opportunities that can showcase a student’s curiosity, drive, and initiative. Colleges are not only interested in a student’s dedication to extracurriculars during the school year but also look for evidence that students are actively exploring their interests and expanding their skills during the summer. Whether you’re participating in a summer program, volunteering, or working, you’re demonstrating a commitment to growth and learning beyond the classroom.

Summer offers a unique chance for students to develop skills, build connections, and make a meaningful impact. Whether a student is eager to dive into a new area of interest, deepen their knowledge in a familiar field, or gain hands-on experience, countless possibilities await.

For students looking to make the most of their summer break and elevate their experiences, here are nine ways students can demonstrate they’ve used their summer wisely:

1. Develop core interests and strengthen ongoing involvement 

Summer offers a wealth of opportunities for students to dive deeper into their passions through activities that feel tailored to their interests, and there’s something for every interest. Aspiring performers can attend theater or music camps, while those drawn to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) can join specialized programs or internships for hands-on experience.

Additionally, nearly every sport or hobby has summer camps and clubs, allowing students to pursue their favorite activities or explore new ones. By participating in these programs, students can build on their skills and show commitment to their passions. Unsure where to start? Let an International College Counselors advisor know your student’s interests, and we’ll recommend tailored programs to help them thrive.

2. Explore personal interests in new ways 

At International College Counselors, we’ve worked with students who have turned their interests and talents into amazing resume builders. Some students have started a business or nonprofit organization over the summer when they have plenty of time to devote to it.

Whether it’s a lawn care business, an online shop, or a charity drive, entrepreneurial activities highlight leadership skills, initiative, creativity, and strategic thinking. Other students pursue personal projects like creating a website, contributing to a blog, or writing a book. For students seeking to expand their personal interests, our counselors can suggest in-person and online opportunities that align with their goals.

3. Gain hands-on work experience 

Jobs and internships are invaluable for building responsibility, commitment, and real-world skills. Whether through a traditional job, work experience, or an internship in a field a student is interested in—like engineering, medicine, journalism, or business—provides experience and allows a student to explore potential career paths. For example, if a student is interested in becoming a graphic designer, they could seek opportunities at a design studio or marketing firm, assisting with tasks like creating social media content or learning design software. Another example: if a student is interested in working as a veterinarian, they should explore opportunities at an animal hospital or humane society, like completing clerical tasks or shadowing the doctors, if possibleIn any role, students can take the initiative by asking to assist with tasks aligned with their interests, such as conducting basic research for a company or helping with customer outreach.

In any job or internship opportunity, students should demonstrate their drive and offer to help with additional tasks that match up with their interests, such as volunteering to do basic research for a lawyer or managing a company’s social media. Remote internships are especially ideal for digital roles like marketing, scientific research, graphic design, tutoring, event planning, customer support, writing, and tech development. Employers are often willing to write an additional letter of recommendation for students to submit with their applications, so it’s important for students to show them their amazing qualities. Colleges appreciate students who actively seek to gain hands-on experience, as it shows initiative and a sense of direction.

Holding a summer job, whether in retail, food service, or an office, teaches responsibility, teamwork, time management, and communication skills. Colleges see value in students who take on paid work because it demonstrates real-world skills and a strong work ethic.

Working for a political campaign, interning at a local government office, or participating in advocacy groups teaches leadership and public engagement. Colleges appreciate students who understand current events and political processes and are active in civic matters.

4. Acquire new knowledge

For students eager to learn something new, summer is the perfect time to explore diverse subjects—from cybersecurity to marine biology. Many colleges and universities offer summer programs for high school students, allowing them to take courses for enrichment or credit.

These pre-college programs often include residential options, so students can experience campus life by spending anywhere from one to seven weeks living and learning on a college campus with classmates from around the world. Not only does attending a program like this demonstrate a student’s interest in a particular subject, but it also allows them to dive deeper into their favorite topics or even explore a new area of interest. By living in dorms, dining on campus, and meeting new people, students get a taste of college life.

Participating in STEM-focused camps allows students to engage deeply with scientific inquiry and demonstrates a commitment to academic growth. Programs like these develop analytical skills and can lead to significant projects, which are attractive to colleges, especially for STEM majors.

Platforms like edX, Coursera, and Udemy offer free courses in various fields, allowing students to broaden their horizons. For those who want feedback and certification, paid options are available.

5. Contribute knowledge through research. 

Conducting research in high school may elevate a student’s college application. Research projects illustrate passion and help provide evidence of a student’s abilities. Students who seek to do research should pursue a field they are interested in. Popular choices include biology, chemistry, and topics in the medical field, as well as sociological fields like political science and economics. Students can further impress a college admissions committee if they attend a selective research program and/or if the student’s research is published. (But do your research on what constitutes a legitimate publishing entity.)

6. Build leadership experience and develop new skills 

Summer camps provide a chance for students to take a break from academics, stay active, and disconnect from screens while gaining valuable skills. Whether a camper or a counselor, summer camp offers students the opportunity to explore interests, learn new skills, and build leadership experience. Working as a camp counselor is particularly beneficial for those interested in fields like education, psychology, or social work, as it combines responsibility with hands-on interaction.

Leadership development programs focused on skills like public speaking, negotiation, and collaboration prepare students for future leadership roles. Colleges value applicants who have honed these skills, as they often translate to active, involved campus members.

7. Experience travel & cultural immersion 

Many families travel during summer, and students can use these trips as enrichment experiences. Language immersion programs or study abroad can also enhance a college application. Students studying a foreign language, for example, can immerse themselves in a culture that speaks that language, practicing their skills in real-world contexts. This experience helps students become more culturally aware, open-minded, and well-prepared for diverse college communities. Learning a new language or studying abroad shows adaptability and global awareness, two traits that colleges find desirable.

Summer can also be an ideal time to tour colleges and narrow down a college list, helping students envision their future.

8. Grow though volunteer work

Volunteering with organizations focused on causes like environmental protection, tutoring, animal rescue, or assisting the elderly shows a commitment to community engagement and empathy. Volunteering also provides students with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their community while developing essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication. Colleges value applicants who have a strong sense of social responsibility and the ability to work well with others. Students interested in social justice, community organizing, or environmental work can explore possible career directions.

9. Take time to relax 

While summer is an excellent time for growth, it’s also essential to rest and recharge. Spending time with family and friends, enjoying a good book, or simply unwinding allows students to return to school refreshed and ready. Balance is key, and summer is an ideal time to enjoy both growth and relaxation.

IMPORTANT ICC TIP: Start making summer plans as soon as possible. Summer programs and courses can fill up fast, especially the popular ones. Many application deadlines are as early as January and may require essays, letters of recommendation, and even test scores, so get started soon!

INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE COUNSELORS

Gain the edge in college admissions with ICC. We can connect your student with the ideal high school summer experience. Plus, we have strategies that may increase your student’s chances of getting in. The expert team at International College Counselors includes former college admission officers, high school directors and counselors, and writing professionals with a combined 250+ years of experience helping students and families successfully navigate the college application journey. For personalized guidance, contact International College Counselors at 954-414-9986 or email us.