As summer approaches, many students wonder how to make the most of their break. Should they focus on an internship, prepare for standardized tests, attend a camp, conduct research, or explore other opportunities? In this guide, we'll break down the best approach to planning your summer effectively.

The Three High School Summers

During high school, students experience three summer breaks:

1. After 9th grade
2. After 10th grade
3. Before 12th grade, leading into college applications

Each summer presents unique opportunities, and planning ahead ensures that students maximize their experiences.

Choosing the Right Summer Activities

Students have a wide range of summer options, including camps, standardized test prep, research, internships, passion projects, and volunteering.

• Camps: High-achieving students should consider applying to top-tier programs. However, many elite camps have age restrictions, typically allowing applications after 10th or 11th grade. It’s best to start preparing well in advance, rather than rushing 3–4 months before the deadline.

• Standardized Testing: To score in the top percentile (e.g., ACT 34-35 or SAT 1500+), students must have strong foundational English skills before beginning serious test prep.

• Top-Tier Camps: Competitive camps require strong test scores, transcripts, essays, and teacher recommendations.

• Research & Internships: Success in research and internships depends on prior experience and interest in the field. Passion projects require an initial spark of curiosity to develop into something meaningful.

The Importance of Preparation

Successfully securing spots in selective camps and research programs requires time and effort.

• Applications to elite programs often happen after 10th or 11th grade
• Strong academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurriculars help build a competitive profile
• Teacher recommendations and essays play a significant role in admissions

For those looking to explore easier camps, ChatGPT can be useful in finding suitable options. If you’ve heard of programs like the Clark Scholars Program, use GPT to discover similar opportunities. Researching camp websites and application criteria can also help identify the best fit.

Less competitive camps may not require transcripts or essays but may involve participation fees. Even without a clear academic interest, attending a summer camp can still provide valuable experience.

Pursuing Research Opportunities

Students interested in research can aim for competitions such as ISEF or publish their work in academic journals like JSHS.

• STEM students often participate in Science Bowls, Science Bees, or Olympiads, which can help them develop a strong foundation before engaging in research.
• Non-STEM students can explore competitions like the Concord Review or John Locke Essay Competition, or participate in Model UN, Model Congress, or Debate.

Even if students don’t win awards, the experience gained through research and competitions can be valuable for college applications, essays, and future opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Early preparation is key to making summer break productive. Students should reflect on past extracurricular experiences and decide whether to deepen their expertise in an existing field or explore new areas. Either path is valid—what matters is aligning activities with personal interests and long-term goals.

By carefully planning summer activities, students can gain valuable experiences, strengthen college applications, and explore their passions in meaningful ways.

Hope this helps you plan a productive and fulfilling summer! Thanks for reading.