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Summer Activities that Impress College Admissions Committees

When you’re thinking about extracurriculars for college admissions, don’t just consider those you participate in during the school year. Colleges want to see that you’re committed to sharpening your skills during the summer, as well.

In the competitive world of college admissions, students are constantly seeking ways to stand out from the crowd and impress admissions teams. While good grades and standardized test scores are important, showcasing well-roundedness and demonstrating a passion for learning beyond the classroom are also crucial. With the hiatus in a full school schedule, summer offers valuable time for students to pursue varied interests.

Here are five summer activities that hold promise for your personal enrichment—and your admissions prospects:

Taking online courses

Enrolling in an online course demonstrates a proactive approach to learning and allows students to pursue academic interests outside the constraints of schoolyear schedules. As an added bonus, this can sometimes help students identify their college major. For example, pursuing language learning through a free app like , or choosing a course on or , can help keep students’ brains active during the summer months and provide valuable additions to their college applications.

Volunteering in person or virtually

Volunteer experience has always been highly regarded by admissions teams. Students can engage in volunteering within their community. In the digital age, virtual volunteer opportunities, like online tutoring, have also emerged as viable alternatives. Students can collaborate with organizations to gain real-world experience, hone their professional skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. To begin looking for volunteer opportunities, a database like is a great place to start. (Students can also check out The Princeton Review’s and to get virtual volunteering ideas!)

Learning coding and app development

Proficiency in coding and app development is valued by colleges and employers alike. Students can cultivate a critical skill and make a strong impression by learning programming languages, building websites, and creating mobile apps. If a student is interested in an undergraduate STEM program, then summer coding work can really help them demonstrate their initiative on college applications.

Visiting colleges

Students can use the time during summer break to begin touring college campuses. Spending time in the physical space of a campus gives students a better idea of whether or not the school is a for their individual needs. Additionally, many colleges have begun to embrace virtual college tours. , for example, has a and optional students can attend from wherever they are.

Prepping for the SAT^® or ACT^®

Even at test-optional or test-flexible schools, the SAT and ACT can make a positive impact on college admissions and merit-based financial aid outcomes. According to a survey of test-optional colleges, the , “on average, close to 80% of their applicants choose to submit test scores.” If students intend to take the SAT or ACT, summer—typically a time with fewer distractions—is a great season to begin a or undertake self-study. That way, rising juniors can take a fall exam, with plenty of time to spare should they decide to take either exam again

In college admissions (and beyond), students benefit when they find creative ways to differentiate themselves. Engaging in summer activities that demonstrate intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and commitment to personal growth can provide one way to do just that. Online courses, volunteering, coding endeavors, and colleges visits are just a few examples of activities that can help students discover and cultivate their interests as well as make a positive impression on admissions committees. Students can make the most of summer break by embarking on a journey of exploration, discovery, and self-improvement.

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