Summer is just around the corner, and many high school students are preparing to head off to college campuses where they will take summer courses, dive into academic interests, and get a taste of college life.
If you’re one of them, congrats! Spending part of your summer in a pre-college program is a great way to meet new people, explore new ideas, and maybe even discover a future major. But beyond the coursework and campus vibes, these programs are a golden opportunity to move the needle on your college applications, if you know how to take advantage of your time on campus.
Here’s how to make the most of your summer program:
- Get to Know Your Instructor
Instructors aren’t just teachers; they could become valuable mentors. Show up on time, ask thoughtful questions, participate actively, and visit office hours if they’re available. Building a real connection can lead to an invitation to collaborate on future research, a glowing recommendation letter, or even a personal call to admissions on your behalf.
- Attend a Formal Info Session and Campus Tour
Even if you’re already on campus, signing up for an official admissions info session and tour matters. Why? Many colleges track “demonstrated interest,” which can boost your “likelihood to attend” score, which can positively influence the admissions decisions should you decide to apply. It’s also a great opportunity to meet current students and find out what college life is like from the people who are living it year-round. So, register for an official campus visit, ask good questions, and pay attention to things you can’t tell from the school website or marketing materials.
- Visit the Admissions Office and Meet Your Regional Rep
Most colleges assign admissions officers by region, so meeting the person who will likely read your application can make a lasting impression. Stop by the admissions office and introduce yourself. A quick, friendly chat could help you stand out when your application crosses their desk.
- Explore the Local Area
Colleges aren’t just classrooms; they’re part of a bigger community. Spend some time checking out the local town or city. Can you see yourself living there for four years? Do you feel safe? How will you get home for the holidays? Try local coffee shops, parks, and bookstores. Take public transportation if it’s available. Identify where you will get groceries. Getting a feel for the area can help you decide if a school is the right fit beyond academics.
- Tour Nearby Colleges
If you’ve got some time before or after your program, squeeze in visits to other colleges in the area, even if you don’t think you want to apply. The more colleges you visit, the more you will be able to identify what you want in a college and what you don’t. Touring the campus, grabbing lunch at the student center, or sitting in on an info session can help you figure out what you want in a school, and demonstrate interest if you end up applying there later.
A summer program is more than a resume booster; it’s a chance to explore your intellectual curiosities, make connections, and show colleges you’re serious about your future. So, make it count!
Stef Mauler
College Coach
