School’s Out—What’s Next?
by Madison Cook | Contributor
Exams are done, the temperatures are rising, and SUMMER HAS ARRIVED! It’s the season for late nights, sleeping in, binge-watching shows, and soaking up the sun! What more could you ask for?
However, after just a week of indulging in “summer fun,” you may find yourself reminiscing about the structure of school. While three months of freedom offers ample time for relaxation, how much of it is too much? Teens are often on the hunt for the right mix between leisure and productivity during this break. In today’s fiercely competitive college admissions environment, alongside the evolving job market for young adults, maximizing summer effectively is crucial. But what does “productive” mean as often described by parents and teachers?
Marie Bigham, the College Counseling Director at Greenhill School and a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling Board, notes that colleges are keen to see students actively engaging their time instead of simply socializing. Summers should be meaningful, which can take various forms, such as attending camps, working, furthering academics, conducting research, traveling, or participating in sports. Bigham advises against costly programs that promise too much, emphasizing that “no summer program guarantees college admission, and free opportunities can be just as valuable as pricey ones.” While colleges understand that summer is a time for relaxation, they appreciate intellectual engagement, community involvement, and a demonstrated sense of responsibility. Ultimately, they want students to gain important life skills—like interacting with diverse groups, maintaining reliability, and earning an income—which can be beneficial through summer employment. Bigham suggests exploring teenlife.com for opportunities, although she acknowledges that jobs for teens can be scarce. Her key advice is to stay humble, open-minded, and willing to take on any preliminary tasks.
Sunshine, Good Times, and Plenty of College Preparation…
Discover How Local Students Are Spending Their Summer Vacations
Lauren Raskin, rising senior
Ursuline Academy of Dallas
“Summer is when we recharge and enjoy a brief escape from academic pressure! Since I was seven, I’ve spent my summers riding horses at the stables. This year, my goal is to juggle my passion for riding with preparing for the ACT and visiting colleges!”
Sophie Shiff, rising junior
Plano West Senior High School
“I believe summer should be about savoring the break from school while also preparing for what’s ahead! I plan to unwind, hang out with friends, enjoy some late mornings, and take SAT prep classes. Additionally, I want to make progress with my volunteer commitments through NCL.”
Walker Tait, rising junior
Greenhill School
“Teens should cherish their summer by relaxing and enjoying time with friends. It’s important to steer away from a rigid schedule and embrace travel, all while keeping the mind active—perhaps through reading.”
Caitlin Smith, current senior
Plano East High School
“After graduating high school, I intend to spend quality time with my friends and family, cherishing these last few months together. This summer will be less hectic compared to previous years. Last year, I interned at Kaplan Pediatrics in Plano, where I had the chance to shadow Dr. Kaplan—an experience that was educational yet a lot of fun. That’s what summer should mean: using free time wisely while also enjoying life.”
Daria Cosgrove, rising junior
Plano West Senior High School
“During summer, it’s crucial for teens to be active outdoors and avoid just lounging around! I plan on playing basketball and improving my skills, while also ensuring I spend quality time with friends in the sun. Additionally, preparing for the SAT/ACT is a priority for me, so I’ll be participating in prep classes.”
Joy Kurdi, rising junior, Prince of Peace Christian School
“I’m excited to be traveling to Europe for the first time with my family! Our itinerary includes stops in London, Spain, Scotland, and France. I’m currently waiting for my passport to arrive!”
Sam Yuan, rising junior
Prince of Peace Christian School
“This has been my first year in the United States and also my initiation into the American high school system. In June, I’ll take a summer class before heading back to China in mid-July. I’ll return to the U.S. in August to start my junior year.”
Keaton Butowsky, rising senior, Greenhill School
“I believe summer is an opportunity to engage in activities we can’t pursue during the busy school year. I will spend a month in Taipei, Taiwan, as part of a Chinese immersion program while also taking an economics class at Greenhill for more curricular flexibility during the school year. Furthermore, I’m enrolled in a college essay workshop to help with college applications and am actively participating in student council, having recently been elected all school president for my senior year.”
Kahrej Alhuwalia, rising junior
Plano West Senior High School
“This summer, I look forward to celebrating my brothers’ graduations from high school while also focusing on my SAT prep as I balance quality time with family and friends. I believe that summer is a key time for teens to prepare for their futures while also incorporating relaxation and enjoyment. I have also previously dedicated my summers to volunteering with charity organizations across the metroplex.”
JC Weed, rising senior
Prince of Peace Christian School
“Following a serious Mule ATV accident in January, I’ll be continuing with physical therapy this summer and training to run again for our cross-country team at POPCS. My family and I will also be visiting colleges in the Northeast, including Clemson University, Cornell University, and Purdue University.”
