Tips to Make the Best of Your High School Summers

Summer vacation is filled with endless opportunities! The sky’s the limit, truly. 

Recently, the epiphany that summer break only exists for students– not adults– has sporadically hit me throughout my days, from on the subway to work to when I’m enjoying an ice cream cone with a friend. Should you choose to pursue a college education, you might, like me, get to savor eight summer breaks: wide-open time that you can use however you please. 

Having just wrapped up my first year at Dartmouth College, it’s been a full year since I graduated from my public high school back home in New Jersey. I still stay in touch with underclassmen while also connecting with my college peers, all of whom are navigating their own unique ways to make the most of the sunshine. 

From the abundance of inspiration in my life– the people I’ve had the privilege to learn from– I’ve learned this: 

When you find what makes you feel happy and fulfilled, hold onto it. Explore it. Let it help you grow. 

⭐Some of the aforementioned sources of inspiration for this important lesson: ● Speakers like Secretary Azar and Senator Kim 

● Books like When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi and Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom 

● Family members, especially my mom 

● Teachers, like Professor Clark and Professor Nachlis 

● Peers– too many to name 

So, from one student on summer break to another, here are two steps that might help you make the most of your high school summer: 

☀️ 1. Explore What Interests You 

Think… 

1. What hobbies do you have? Whether it’s baking, running, guitar, or something else, spend time discovering and deepening what brings you joy. Try something new, or fall back in love with something familiar.

2. What do you want to do with your summer? Any opportunities, places, jobs, tests, foods that pique your interest? 

🎯 2. Set Goals. Plan Accordingly. 

For all of the different things you might want to do, try to set goals for yourself and plan out ways to achieve them. 

A. Decided you want to prepare for a test or class? Set a target score or curriculum and build a weekly study plan. 

B. What do you want to do for others and how can you engage with your community? Think about ways to channel your interests, talents, and hobbies into service (ex: violin → performing for a nursing home). 

C. Want to try working a job? Look for a part-time job or internship targeted towards high school students. Put yourself out there for any opportunity that catches your eye. 

D. Have some places and foods you want to try this summer? Create a bucket list. Reach out to your friends and family to eat what you enjoy and see sights you love. 

☀️ Bonus Tip: Just Start! 

You don’t need a perfect plan to begin. Explore your curiosities and allow yourself to grow through trial and error. 

Whatever you choose to do, know this: you can do anything you set your mind to. Be intentional, put yourself out there, and make it count. And, if you have any questions or want to chat, my inbox is always open. 

And of course– HAGS (Have A Good Summer)!! 

Warmly, 

Phoebe

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Phoebe Kim

Rising Sophomore, Dartmouth College

Major in Government and English

Contributor, Prestige Institute