What Should You Be Doing During Your Summer Break?

Summer is here — and with it, the end of your academic year! After months of exams, essays, group projects, after-school tutoring, and everything in between, you've earned a break. It’s time to sleep in, hang out with friends, and unwind. But let’s be honest… after the first two or three weeks of doing absolutely nothing, summer can start to feel a little monotonous.

So, what if you could keep the fun going and do things that boost your college applications or resume? The good news is: you can! There are so many exciting and meaningful ways to spend your summer that not only help you grow personally but also stand out when it's time to apply for university.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of your summer break:

1. Join a Summer Camp That Aligns With Your Interests

Summer camps aren't just about s’mores and canoe races anymore. There are camps around the world designed specifically to help students explore their passions — whether it’s engineering, coding, filmmaking, entrepreneurship, or even international relations. These immersive experiences give you a taste of what life could be like after high school, introduce you to peers with similar interests, and can sometimes even earn you college credits.

➡️ Pro Tip: If you're curious about programs available for students like you, be sure to check out our article: [“Pre-College Summer Camps for International Students 2025: Where Learning Meets Adventure”] — it's packed with handpicked recommendations and insights.

On a Budget? No problem. There are amazing free or low-cost options right in your local community. Libraries, community centers, universities, and online platforms often host workshops, competitions, and short courses — many of them free of charge. The key is to look around and ask. You never know what you might discover!

2. Volunteer — Make a Difference While Gaining Experience

Volunteering is one of the most fulfilling ways to spend your summer. It allows you to give back, feel purposeful, and be a part of something bigger than yourself. Plus, universities love to see applicants who show compassion, leadership, and initiative. Start with your local community — your place of worship, nearby charities, or local NGOs. Many of these organizations host events, food drives, youth camps, or outreach programs during the summer. Offer to help. And if there aren’t any upcoming events, don’t be afraid to create your own! Organize a neighborhood clean-up, start a donation drive, or sell baked goods to raise funds for a cause close to your heart. This kind of leadership and initiative speaks volumes about your character and values.

3. Explore Career Paths by Shadowing a Professional

Summer is a fantastic time to explore the career path you’re considering. Interested in medicine? Law? Architecture? Journalism? Take the first step and reach out to a local professional in your area to ask if you can shadow them or volunteer at their office for a few days or weeks. You’ll gain firsthand insight into the day-to-day of the job and maybe even find a mentor.

Yes — this might feel intimidating at first. But consider this: professionals are often happy to support students who show genuine interest and initiative.

Here’s how to start:

• Think about a job or career that interests you.

• Use Google or social media to search for local professionals or businesses in that field.

• Find their contact information — email is usually the easiest way to start.

• Write a short message introducing yourself, your interest in their field, and your request to shadow or help out for a short time.

  
  

➡️ Nervous about reaching out? Write a script before calling or drafting your email. Ask a trusted adult to review it with you if needed. It’s okay to feel awkward at first — every expert was once a beginner.

Final Thoughts

Summer break is the perfect time to relax, recharge, and reflect. But it’s also an incredible opportunity to explore new interests, step out of your comfort zone, and start building your future.

Whether you're helping out in your community, joining a camp, or shadowing a professional, every experience adds value to your story — and brings you one step closer to your academic and personal goals.

So don’t let the summer just pass by. Make it count.