Junior year is infamous for being called the hardest year of high school. While I would agree with this, one thing many people don’t talk about as much is the importance of the summer after junior year. This is the time to jump start your college applications process so you don’t stress out when the November 1st deadline comes quicker than you expect. Here are four tips rising seniors can use this summer to get started.
- Ask for recommendation letters before junior year ends
While teachers are usually willing and enthusiastic about writing your letter of recommendation, they need ample time to do so. Many teachers write dozens of letters every year so asking earlier on can make a big difference in when they complete it. The end of junior year is a good time to think about which teachers you know best and ask them if they would be willing to write it for you.
- Make a “brag” sheet
A brag sheet includes all of the activities such as extracurriculars, clubs, sports, and awards you have done over the course of high school. Organizing this information clearly will make it so much easier when filling out the activities section of the Common Application. Also, if you realize you don’t have as many extracurriculars as you would want, you can use the summer to volunteer and add that to your brag sheet as well.
- Start drafting your essays early
While everyone says this, it can be so easy to procrastinate starting your essays during summer break. But the reality is that it takes a lot longer than you think. Even just brainstorming ideas and writing an outline early on in the summer can be super beneficial. You can also look into finding a college essay tutor during this time if that is something you want.
- Choose a summer activity
Choosing an activity such as volunteering at a local hospital or kids camp is a really good way to spend your time in the summer. It shows your willingness to give back and also it is a good way to find the things you are passionate and interested about. In Ann Arbor, volunteering for Rec & Ed as a camp counselor is a great opportunity to check out.
- Make time to enjoy your summer
Once senior year starts, it can feel really rushed so making time to relax and spend time doing the things you love during summer break is just as important as these other tips. It’s all about balance so you don’t burn yourself out.
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