Where are you (or your child) with future plans?
Maybe you are heading into junior year and just beginning to think of what your post-high school plans may look like. If you are heading into your final year of high school, you may be finalizing your college list and checking off items on your high school bucket list. Or maybe, you are somewhere in between, navigating the landscape of post-secondary planning. The good news is that regardless of where you are in the process, summer is the perfect time to start planning for your future post-high school.
Careers
Summer is a great time to start thinking about possible careers. Working with a college counselor for career exploration can help guide you in the direction of internships or jobs that may be in alignment with a future career. If you can snag a summer internship or job that also demonstrates some sort of leadership- BONUS! College admissions love seeing this kind of experience on your application. When I worked in admissions these were the applicants that often rose to the top of the pile.
Be an Entrepreneur
Got the entrepreneurial bug? Summer is a great time to start a business by connecting your passions with your drive and work ethic. Work with a college counselor to make a business plan and put the wheels in motion this summer. In our digital age, it’s easier than ever to set up your own business and market it online. (Fusion also has a Business Entrepreneurship course you can take for credit to get you set up for success – personally and academically.)
Volunteer
There is never a shortage of need for volunteers, and summer could be an opportunity to give back to your local community. As a volunteer, you will develop leadership skills that will last a lifetime, while serving those in need. Research causes that mean something to you and see what is available in your neighborhood. This is also a great way to spend meaningful time with your friends and family while helping others.
Visit a School
Summer is a great time to explore beautiful college campuses and learn what environment will be the best fit for you. Do you want a small, liberal arts school or a large research university? Do you want to cheer on your school’s football team at the big game or sip a hot cup of coffee while you meet with your professor and discuss eighteenth century literature? Do you want to join your schools robotics team or are you looking for a dance troupe?
Pro Tip: Make sure you do an “official” visit through the admissions office so the visit is counted towards your candidacy should you submit an application during your senior year!
Test Prep
Finally, make sure you are thinking about SAT, ACT, and other test prep work. This is a great time to explore which test is best for you and the schools you’re interested in, practice for your exam by taking a prep class, or plan to sit for a test. Test prep will keep your brain active so you will be ready to head back into the school year in the fall.
Flexible and Virtual
Here’s the good news- you can do many of these things while still having a super-fun summer vacation! Work with your Fusion post-secondary counselor to create a plan for your summer, where you can balance preparing for your future while soaking up some rays (with SPF, of course). No matter where you are with planning, or where you are on vacation, we can work around your schedule and we offer virtual sessions. Make this summer the best one yet by investing in your future.
I’m here to help you with any of your future planning and can connect you to one of our incredible counselors nationwide. Reach out to me at nbozick@fusionacademy.com.
