What Should an 11th Grader Do Over the Summer?

The summer after 11th grade often requires more planning because college applications are approaching, but that doesn't mean every student needs a prestigious summer program.

At this point, students often benefit from experiences that build naturally on interests they've already developed.

That might mean:

• Advanced coursework
• Research
• A substantive internship
• Employment
• Leadership
• An independent project
• Volunteering in an established area of interest
• Continuing a long-term activity
• Preparing a portfolio or other body of work

Consistency and progression can matter more than novelty.

If a student has spent several years developing an interest, this can be the summer to take greater ownership of it.

It's also reasonable to reserve time for college visits, application preparation, family travel, work, and simply having a summer.

The goal shouldn't be to manufacture one final impressive activity before applications. A good summer is one that makes sense in the context of what the student has already been doing, and what they genuinely want to do next.