How to NOT Waste Your Summer (in 5 Easy Steps)
How to NOT Waste Your Summer (in 5 Easy Steps)
So you’ve just finished the school year… Congrats! Take a break this summer – you deserve it!
However, keep in mind that 2-3 months of summer is a long time, so don’t let it all go to waste! Imagine what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it.
While summer is certainly a time for fun and relaxing, you should also try to be productive and dedicate at least some of your day towards self-improvement.
Here are 5 tips to get you started:
1. Review and Pre-Study School Material
Yes, it’s great to have your mind off school for a while, but try not to forget everything you’ve worked so hard to learn in the past year.
Spending just 30 minutes a day reviewing class material will help keep your mind sharp, refresh your memory, and place you ahead of most of your classmates.
If you want to get a head start on the upcoming school year, pre-study the courses that you’re planning to take. Nowadays, the internet is a powerful tool for self-learning.
Watch video tutorials on YouTube or read MEK Review’s many free blog resources!
If you are looking to achieve a top GPA and take difficult honors courses in the Fall, you can even take a few prep classes to get ahead of the game. For instance, we offer H.S. Honors classes to help students master tough science and math classes. During our Early Bird Discount period for Summer 2024 until 3/31, get 20% off when you make a $300 deposit and another 5% off when you pay in full before 3/31!
2. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Nobody likes them, but we all have to take them at one point or another. So why not finish your standardized tests in the summer instead of stressing over them during the school year? If you haven’t done so already, decide which exams you intend to take (SAT vs. ACT, etc.) and establish a schedule to keep everything organized.
Summer gives you the perfect chance to really dedicate your time to improving your score. At MEK, our Summer SAT Prep students improve their scores by 200+ points, while our ACT Prep students on average improve by 6 points!
3. Attend Classes or Summer Programs at Colleges
Learning doesn’t have to stop in the classroom! If you’re passionate about a particular field of study or simply want to get ahead, consider taking classes at a local college.
Some universities even offer summer learning programs specifically made for ambitious high school students. By participating in one of these educational camps, you’ll gain valuable knowledge in your area of interest, experience life on a college campus, and meet like-minded students from all around the world!
4. Find a Job or Volunteer
For high schoolers, summers are the perfect time to gain real-life working experience. With an abundance of time on your hands, try to make some use of it either by earning money for yourself or helping others.
For example, if you’re an exceptional student or simply enjoy teaching, consider becoming a tutor. If you want to meet new people and serve your community, try working at a local restaurant or grocery store. Getting a job and volunteering are not only valuable character-building experiences, but also look nice on a resume or college application.
Keep in mind that many opportunities open up right when the summer begins, so make sure to begin seeking them out in early June instead of late August, when all the spots will have likely been taken.
5. Research and Visit Colleges
It’s never too early to begin your college search process.
Instead of stressing out during senior year, why not spend time over the summer researching colleges? Keep an open mind, and take a broad look at different schools to determine which ones best align with your interests, preferences, and future goals.
Once you’ve narrowed down a few of your top-choice colleges, be sure to participate in campus visits and attend information sessions to learn more about the school and decide whether or not you really want to apply.
The Big Takeaway
Though summer vacation is a well-merited break for students, try not to waste your time sitting around and watching TV all day. 2-3 months off from school is enough time for BOTH relaxation and productivity – not just one or the other. So get off the couch, and start improving your academic, social, and personal life!
By following these 5 recommendations, you’ll surely be on track for a productive and unforgettable summer! And don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it. Finding enjoyment in the activities that foster self-improvement will help you go far in life.
What’s Next?
Summer is the perfect opportunity for learning and growth! Want to make the most of it?
Whether your focus is SAT & ACT Prep, HS Honors Prep, we can help your child improve his or her scores and stay ahead of the curve✏️! And for middle school students, our MEK Learning Circles and High School Admissions programs will help your child exceed their academic and admissions goals.
To inquire, call 855-346-1410 or contact us here!
