It’s the summer before your senior year! A time for making memories. But, it would also be a good idea to look ahead to life after your graduation. It will remove some of the anxiety that comes with preparing for college during the excitement and busyness of your senior year.
Six things to do the summer before senior year
1) Finalize – then narrow down your college list
Think about what is most important to you in a college – Location? Athletics? Majors? Size? Take the “best college for me quiz” to help guide your thoughts.
2) Visit colleges
Summer is a great time to visit all the colleges you’re interested in. Yes, campus will be much quieter without students on campus. So, use these summer visits to further narrow down your list, then visit your top schools again in the fall to get the full campus vibe.
To learn more, read our article about making the most of your college visit >
3) Draft college essays
Many schools require an essay as part of the application process. The summer before your senior year is good time start thinking about what you are going to write. Common App essay prompts are available online. Start brainstorming now, gathering illustrations and drafting your essay.
4) Walk down memory lane
Colleges will ask for your extracurricular activities, including church and community involvement during high school, and any awards or recognitions you’ve received. Start compiling a list. If you are concerned that your list is a bit lean, now is the time to add to it. Search out a volunteer opportunity, job or internship. Perhaps job shadow someone in a profession that interests you.
5) Research scholarships
Some scholarships set their application deadlines in the early fall. You don’t want to miss out on this ‘free’ money by missing deadlines. Research and apply for scholarship and grant opportunities now before your life gets crazy busy in the fall. The earlier you start, the more scholarships you are likely to find and have time to apply.
6) Have fun!
This is your summer! Don’t let the college search overwhelm you. Intentionally set aside time for rest, relaxation and making memories. But know that the more you work ahead now, the less crazed life will be once your senior year really starts.
At Bluffton University…
Personal campus visits, which are tailored to your individual interests, may be scheduled Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Register for your visit today. Applications are accepted from new seniors beginning June 15.