Summer Reading for College Bound Teens

Summer is the favorite time of year for most students. Traditionally, it is viewed as a welcomed break from formal education and as a time to simply relax.  But summers for college-bound students must also include some aspects of continuing education during these down months.

For some teens, it may mean classes at the local community college, for others it may mean a formal test preparation course. Some students may seek tutoring for a subject that has posed challenges during the school year.  For all students, however, it should include reading.

This does not mean students must spend all day, everyday reading, unless they want to, of course. It also does not mean that students must read academically serious books all summer. There is a wide variety of publications aimed at young adult readers that cover both scholastically stimulating topics, as well as those designed to cultivate popular trends. Almost any age-appropriate subject will suffice as long as the student is actively engaged in reading during the summer months. 

Here are some fantastic resources for college-bound teens to utilize in preparing for a productive summer of reading:

College Board's 101 Great Books for College-Bound Readers

New York Times Best Seller List

Young Adult Library Services Association

Kansas City Public Library Teen Summer Reading Program

Mid-Continent Public Library Teen Summer Reading Program

Being a well-read student, one who is able to communicate in written and verbal format about both historical and current topics, about his/her passions, and about actively planning for the future will aid in not only crafting a notable college admission essay, but will also assist students who are invited to participate in interviews for admission and scholarship.

Message to College Bound High School Juniors About Summer

"Summer afternoon... to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." — Henry James

Remember when summer vacation meant sleep overs, lying by the pool, sleeping in and waking up without an alarm clock, and vegging on the couch watching hours of daytime TV?

Then you became a rising high school senior with college-bound plans!

While you are absolutely deserving of some down time during the next three months, you certainly need to also recognize the value in productivity as it relates to your college search.

Take a look at your current resume. What is lacking? An employment experience? Community involvement? Demonstration of leadership?

Here are some suggestions for meaningful summer activities:

Community Service
There are plenty of chances for you to select one agency and create a set schedule for summer hours. You may also engage in a series of shorter stints at a variety of organizations instead of committing to just one. Volunteering provides a service to the community, refreshes your soul, and often also teaches you valuable skills that can be applied not only in your future personal life, but also in your professional career.

Summer Job 

Whether in a retail situation, an office environment, food service, or babysitting, all employment opportunities are pleasing on the student resume and allow you to earn money for college. Look for opportunities to grow as a person and as a future professional in whatever summer job you do, even if it is not what you want to do with the rest of your life.  

Reading 

  Read. Read. And read more. Absolutely find some mindless escapes, but also pay attention to books and magazines that will help you during senior year and beyond. Investigate current news headlines further and solidify your position on what is happening in our local community, our state, our country, and the world. Read books that challenge you. For a list of College Board’s suggested novels, click here.

Test Prep  

There are several more testing dates early in your senior year, so summer is not a time to distance yourself from test preparation. Many students see a score increase from junior year to senior year, so give yourself a running start and plan in advance to raise your composite. The Question of the Day from both the College Board and ACT are an easy and daily example of keeping your prep front of mind.
 

Job Shadowing  

Spend a day or half day job shadowing someone in a profession that interests you. Reach out to friends, family, and neighbors who may have a connection in the field.  This is a great way to truly see what happens during "a day in the life of..."
 

College Visits 

Of course! Summer is an opportune time for most families to conduct college campus visits. Keep in mind, however, that you will likely not get to see the full effect of a school during summer, so if it is a campus that maintains your interest, consider it your first visit and make sure to return for a more realistic view while classes are in session.
 

Again, you truly must enjoy some time to relax during the next few months. But also make choices about your time that will be fruitful in helping to shape the next few years of your life.