What summer programs or jobs are great for high school students?

Hey guys, summer's around the corner, and I've been considering using this time to gain some work experience or get involved in a summer program. Ideally, something that's a good fit for high school students and could bolster my college application. Can anyone recommend solid summer programs or jobs?

Absolutely, there's an array of summer opportunities specifically designed for high school students that can not only offer valuable work experience or educational enrichment but can boost your college application as well. A few suggestions:

1. Internships: Some companies offer internship opportunities for high school students where you can gain first-hand work experience in a specific field. This can be particularly useful if you have clear career interests and want to explore them further.

2. Volunteering: Engaging in community service is another excellent way to spend your summer break. Many nonprofits and local organizations have volunteer opportunities and even structured programs for high school students. Taking part in these not only provide you with work experience and perspective but also underscores your commitment to serve the community, a noteworthy trait for your college application.

3. Research Programs: If you're interested in science or academia, you might consider joining a research program. Many universities host summer research programs for high school students. These programs often culminate in a presentation or paper you can include in your portfolio.

4. Leadership Programs: If you're interested in honing leadership skills, check out programs like HOBY (Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership) or RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). They provide foundational skills to become successful leaders to high school students.

5. Summer Camp Counselor: Becoming a summer camp counselor can be a great summer job opportunity. It builds skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication, and gives you a chance to work with and mentor younger students.

6. Entrepreneurship: Consider starting a small local business—like a lawn care service, tutoring company, or selling handmade products. It could teach you essential skills like marketing, budgeting, and customer service.

When choosing what to do during the summer, remember to align your activities with your interests and future goals. This way, you'll not only gain experience and skills that can enhance your college applications, but you'll also have fun and feel fulfilled while doing it. Trust me, admissions officers can tell when a student is passionate about what they're doing versus simply trying to pad their application. A great rule of thumb is to select an activity that deeply interests you and will allow you to grow personally or professionally. Good luck with your search!