Preparing for your student’s summer starts now

It’s certainly chilly outside and snow continues to be in the forecast. So, it may seem a bit early to be thinking about your student’s summer plans and the following school year, right? Not a chance.

Preparing for your student’s summer and following school year will take some planning—especially if you’re hoping to secure some scholarships for those activities. To start the ball rolling, here are three quick tips to get you started on your plans.

Identify your student’s goals.

Talk to your student about their interests and what their goals are for the coming year. Are they really interested in learning a new language? Are they fascinated by chemistry and want to know more? Or maybe they’re just interested in getting a taste of college academics. Knowing where their interests lie will help you narrow down what kind of programs—or possibly even jobs or internships—your student may wish to pursue. If you and your student aren’t sure where to begin, this may be the right time for them to meet with a trusted guidance counselor and get their wheels turning.

Find the right program and apply for scholarships.

It’s not hard to find a summer program. Your high school guidance counselor may have a list of recommended programs, and a quick internet search will give you lists of options for everything from coding to veterinary medicine. Many colleges across Pennsylvania also offer summer programs for high school students, as well. But it will take some time and research to find a program that meets your student’s interests and location, as well as your family’s budget.

Many programs offer financial assistance, and in some instances, your student may be eligible for scholarships through their high school. Speak with your school’s guidance counselor for more information about financial aid options for summer programs; the counselor may even be aware of some community-based, private options for scholarships.

Be sure to jot down the application deadlines for the programs your student is interested in attending, as well as any financial aid application deadlines. It’s also important to note that many college-hosted programs have been temporarily cancelled or are preparing to run virtually. So, be sure to search each program’s website thoroughly and do not hesitate to call for more information.

Make a plan to continue growth through the next school year.

Whether your student plans to spend a week of their summer on Capitol Hill or they attend a sampling of undergraduate classes at a local college near home, it’s important to be intentional about keeping the momentum going once their program has ended. If they loved their experience, encourage them to find a mentor in the field of their interest. If they discovered they may be better suited elsewhere, encourage them to explore more options through books, podcasts, or by meeting with a career counselor.

And as your student gears up for the next school year, it’s never too early to think long-term about what extracurriculars may help your student achieve their future goals.

It may seem hard to believe, but the end of this school year is already in sight. Get to work on setting yourself up for a successful summer and start to the following school year now, and you’ll be glad you did.