Creative Summer Activities for High School Students: Stand Out and Grow
Do you knit? Use that skill to help others!
Summer break is more than just a pause from school-it's a golden opportunity to explore your interests, develop new skills, and set yourself apart on your college applications. Whether you’re a student eager to try something new or a parent looking for meaningful ways your teen can spend their summer, thinking outside the box can lead to experiences that are both memorable and impressive to college admissions officers.
Below are some unique and impactful ideas to inspire your summer plans.
Start a Blog or Podcast
Blogging: Share your passion for a subject-whether it’s science, literature, sports, or social justice-by starting a blog. Regularly writing about your interests demonstrates initiative, communication skills, and commitment. You can even invite guest writers or interview local experts to expand your reach and network.
Podcasting: If you prefer speaking, create a podcast series. For example, you could research local history, interview community members, or discuss current events. This builds research, technical, and communication skills, and shows colleges your ability to create and manage a project from scratch.
Volunteer with a Creative Twist
Music at Retirement Homes: If you play an instrument or sing, organize performances or music workshops at local retirement homes. Beyond entertainment, music can foster intergenerational connections and brighten residents’ days. You could even record these sessions and share the stories you learn on your blog or podcast.
Community Projects: Organize a book drive, start a community garden, or design a mural with friends. These projects show leadership, teamwork, and a desire to make a tangible impact.
Solve Real-World Problems with Technology
3D Printing Solutions: Use a 3D printer to address a local need-such as creating assistive devices, custom tools for community gardens, or educational models for younger students. Document your process and results, which not only highlights your technical skills but also your creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Coding Bootcamps: If you have programming skills, consider hosting a coding camp for kids in your neighborhood. Teaching others is a powerful way to reinforce your own knowledge and demonstrate leadership.
Join a community of students with similar interests outside of your high school!
Pursue Passion Projects
Write and Publish: Submit short stories, poems, or opinion pieces to local newspapers or literary magazines. Self-publishing a community cookbook or organizing a virtual art exhibit can also showcase your creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Research Projects: Dive deep into a topic you’re curious about and present your findings-through a website, video series, or community talk. This shows colleges your intellectual curiosity and initiative.
Explore New Skills and Hobbies
Learn an Instrument or Art Form: Summer is a great time to pick up a new instrument, try painting, or learn photography. These creative pursuits can be both relaxing and rewarding, and they add depth to your college application.
Start a Small Business: Launch a pet-sitting service, tutoring business, or sell handmade crafts online. Running a business demonstrates responsibility, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial drive.
Get Involved in Pre-College Programs or Online Courses
Academic Enrichment: Many colleges offer summer courses or pre-college programs for high school students. Enrolling in a class related to your intended major shows dedication and readiness for college-level work.
Online Learning: Platforms like Coursera or edX offer free or low-cost courses on everything from computer science to creative writing. Completing these courses demonstrates initiative and a love of learning.
Why These Activities Matter for College Applications
Colleges are looking for students who show initiative, creativity, and a willingness to make an impact. Unique summer activities help you:
Stand out from other applicants with similar academic records.
Demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Show authentic engagement with your interests and community.
Colleges often look at activities with a focus on leadership, initiative, and impact, but you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Take your interests and expand them in creative ways. Look beyond the obvious!
Final Thoughts
Summer is what you make of it. By approaching these months with curiosity and creativity, you can discover new interests, make a difference in your community, and build a college application that tells your unique story. Parents, encourage your teens to pursue what excites them, and students, don’t be afraid to try something new-you might just find your passion and impress admissions officers along the way.
