Make the Most of This Summer: Plan Now

Rather than letting the dreary winter months bring you down, why not start planning for an adventurous summer spent learning a new skill or exploring your interests.

Gain Work Experience. If you’re not interested in participating in a summer program or camp, an internship or job can help you explore careers and learn new skills – – and may also be advantageous to your wallet!

Many local organizations seek high school students for summer work. The Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center is currently seeking high school students with a strong interest in science to participate in their cancer research CURE program.

For opportunities in other fields, network with your parents, neighbors and friends to identify possible internships. Summer camp jobs typically interview workers this month, so don’t delay in applying if you are interested.

Volunteer in the Community. Contributing to your community doesn’t mean you have to travel abroad – you can help just by walking to your local hospital, school or religious organization.

University of Delaware freshman, Megan Young, did just that when seeking to help those in her community.

“I have been a volunteer firefighter with the Townsend Fire Company since I was a freshman in high school,” said Megan. “I found myself assisting many families with children which led me to my interest in becoming a family therapist.“

If you’re interested in a career in medicine, consider spending a few hours a week in a local hospital, or if you’re looking for something more substantial seek out summer long programs like the Summer Health Corps Program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center which is a hands-on program where students spend time in a variety of departments. If you love animals, consider volunteering at Angell Animal Medical Center (you must be at least 16 years old).

Service and the Environment. If the outdoors appeals to you, consider a service project. One such experience is the SCA National Conservation Crew, where students spend an extended period of time camping out as small crews, working together on environmental issues, enjoying nature, and most importantly, building leadership skills.

Foster Curiosity in a Pursuit. When you hear the word “camp,” you may think of a summer spent outdoors, but not all camps today require sunscreen. Many camps support students’ interest in an array of fields..

For the artistically inclined, Pratt Institute’s summer program will both immerse you in art and design and give you a creative environment where you can build your portfolio. Those with a penchant for writing who are not sure how to make a career of it will find the Washington University in St. Louis’s Writing Institute enlightening – here you will explore various writing styles in both the fiction and nonfiction genres with professional and creative writers.

Trek around the World.  Chances are you already have studied another language at the high school level in preparation for college, but why not deepen your knowledge of that culture, expand your horizons and demonstrate your adventurous spirit by traveling through the summer?

Organizations such as Aspire by API or Abbey Road can help you customize opportunities to immerse yourself in the language and culture of another country, both in and out of the classroom. Both companies do more than help you plan a trip, they also help you develop relevant global communication and intercultural skills.

This is just a sampling of many available summer opportunities. If you need assistance with determining your own summer plan, contact us today.