What High School Students Can Do With Their Summers

By the time summer rolls around, you’ve probably heard a lot about using your time “wisely” or doing something that will stand out for college. It can start to feel like there’s a right way to spend your summer. But if you’re thinking about college, it’s helpful to know that there really isn’t one perfect path. You don’t need to fill every week with something impressive. What matters more is that you’re spending your time in a way that feels meaningful to you.

For some students, that means leaning into an academic interest. Summer is a great time to explore something you’re curious about without the pressure of a full schedule. That could be an online class, a personal project, extra reading, or even just going deeper into a subject you already enjoy. What stands out is genuine curiosity and a willingness to learn more.

Some students choose to take a class over the summer, either to get ahead or try something new. That can be a great option, especially since summer classes often feel a bit more focused and less hectic. There are multiple ways you can pursue courses, such as classes at a local community college or at your high school. Some colleges also offer summer programs where you can spend time on campus during the summer months. While these can be ideal options for some people, it’s also completely okay not to take classes. Learning can happen in a lot of different ways, and your summer doesn’t need to look like the school year.

For others, summer is about getting real-world experience. Jobs, internships, volunteering, or helping out locally can all be valuable. Working consistent hours, interacting with people, and learning how to manage responsibility can teach you a lot. These experiences also help you figure out what you like and what you don’t, which is just as important.

Summer can also be a chance to try something different. That might mean traveling, joining a program at a college campus or other extracurricular, spending more time with your community, or picking up a new hobby. Even small experiences can have a big impact. Trying something new often helps you grow in ways you don’t expect.

And honestly, it’s also okay to just take a break. Spending time with friends and family, relaxing, and giving yourself time to reset is important. High school can be busy, and rest is part of staying balanced and coming back ready for the next school year. At the end of the day, colleges and admission offices aren’t always looking for a perfectly planned summer. They’re more interested in what you take away from it. Your summer doesn’t need to be packed with activities as long as you get what you need out of those few months.

Written by: Jaelin Robin, Assistant Director, USC Office of Admission