Optimizing Your 10th Grade Summer for a Strong College Application
For a rising 10th grader, the summer break is a crucial period for growth and development. You might wonder, ldquo;What should a 10th grader do over summer that would look good in my college application?rdquo; This article explores the best activities and summer jobs that can enhance your application while also making the most of your time in a meaningful way.
Understanding the Importance of Authenticity in Your Application
Many students aim to impress college admissions officers by participating in common activities such as taking SAT prep classes, joining clubs, or securing a job. However, it is important to remember that admissions officers have a wealth of information about each applicant. They have access to their standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and overall academic performance.
Studying the desires of college admissions officers and tailoring your summer activities to meet their expectations is a futile exercise. What truly stands out is authenticity. Admissions officers appreciate genuine pursuits and experiences over conventional ones. They often see many applications from students who were involved in activities like debate, pre-law societies, and sports. These applications fall into a predictable pattern.
Why Authenticity Is Key
The happiest people I know have a unique insight: do what you want to do with as much of your life as possible. This doesn't mean being lazy, but rather finding something you are passionate about to pursue over the summer. Are you interested in learning a new skill, volunteering, or researching a topic that fascinates you? Dive into it!
The summer is a short period, so make the most of it. Invest your time in something that aligns with your values and interests. For instance, if you are passionate about teaching, spend the summer volunteering to teach English to refugees from Ukraine. Share your experiences, such as the impact of global migration on local communities or the cultural values of different countries.
Alternatively, if you are curious about the environment, dedicate your summer to researching the benefits of planting wildflowers and helping neighbors transform their yards into butterfly gardens. During the next summer, observe the species of butterflies that thrive in your region and document your findings, discussing the role of specific plants in supporting certain species.
Why Admissions Officers Value Authenticity
Admissions officers see a plethora of applications from conventional individuals. True authenticity is rare. They might not often encounter applications from students who chose to explore less conventional paths. Here are a few examples:
Teaching English to Refugees: Stand out by teaching English to refugees from Ukraine and sharing stories of their experiences and cultural backgrounds. This demonstrates empathy and an understanding of global issues. Environmental Research: Spend the summer researching and promoting butterfly gardens. Document your findings on local butterfly species and their habitats. Highlight the importance of ecosystem preservation and the joy of observation. Historical Research: Become an expert in your family's history. Interview relatives and collect stories, tracing your heritage. Document your findings and explain the significance of your connections to your family's past.By participating in these activities, you not only gain valuable experiences but also provide a unique perspective that can set you apart in the college application process. Admissions officers appreciate candidates who are genuine and passionate about their pursuits.
Conclusion
When embarking on your summer activities as a rising 10th grader, remember to focus on authenticity. Pursue opportunities that align with your passions and interests. Whether it's volunteering, researching, or learning a new skill, make the most of your time by doing something that truly speaks to you. This not only enhances your application but also ensures that you have meaningful experiences and memorable summers.