7 Smart Summer Steps for High School Students to Get College-Ready

While summer should be a time for rest and recharge, it’s also the perfect window for students to get ahead in the college prep process—without the stress of the school year. As counselors, our guidance can turn summer into a season of growth, exploration, and preparation.

Here are seven summer strategies counselors can recommend to students at every grade level and a great free download worksheet and infographic you can share with your student(s)!

1. Reflect on Strengths and Interests (You Factor)

Summer is a great time for self-discovery. Encourage students to journal, take online personality or interest assessments (like 16Personalities or MyNextMove), or even job shadow a professional in a field they’re curious about. This self-awareness lays the foundation for their college list and essay topics.

2. Build a College-Going Résumé

Students should begin tracking activities, leadership roles, volunteer hours, and work experiences in a simple résumé document or Google Sheet. This will save time during the application process and boost confidence as they see their accomplishments grow.

3. Explore Colleges (Virtually or In-Person)

Whether it’s a road trip or a laptop, students can explore campuses via YouVisit, attend virtual info sessions, or schedule in-person tours. Rising juniors and seniors should aim to visit at least 2–3 types of colleges (small, large, public, private).

4. Practice College-Level Time Management

Even simple things like creating a daily summer routine, managing a work schedule, or completing a summer reading list can build time management and self-discipline—key skills for college success.

5. Learn About College Costs and Financial Aid

Introduce juniors and seniors to resources like TuitionTracker or the FAFSA Estimator. For students with financial need, encourage them to research scholarship databases like Fastweb or GoingMerry.

6. Explore Career Opportunities

Summer is a great time to shadow a professional, find an internship, take part in a summer camp, or work a part-time job to explore careers and build experience.

7. Read Something—Anything

Reading over the summer improves vocabulary, writing fluency, and critical thinking. Encourage students to pick a book they enjoy—fiction or nonfiction—and reflect on what they learn. Bonus: it can become material for their college essay!

Downloadable Resource: College UnMazed Summer Checklist for Students

Students and counselors can use our printable PDF checklist to guide summer readiness:

Download: College UnMazed – Summer College Prep Checklist (PDF)

Final Thought for Counselors

Encourage students to do what they can—without overwhelming them. Even taking 1–2 small steps over the summer can provide momentum and confidence as they enter the next school year. With your guidance and College UnMazed as a resource, they’ll be ready to take the next step forward.