E- Magazine: Success Starts Now: A Summer Prep Guide for the School Year Ahead
Success Starts Now: A Summer Prep Guide for the School Year Ahead
By: Robyn Asbell
Let’s be real: as much as we want to hold on to the carefree days of summer, the back-to-school season is creeping up faster than we’d like! Rather than dreading it, what if we flipped the script? We can utilize this time not only to reset but to launch into the new school year feeling prepared, balanced, and focused!
Whether you're entering high school or stepping into your final year, the choices you make this summer can set the tone for everything to come. Let this be your guide to a season shaped by purpose, fueled by passion, and powered by planning.
For the Class of 2026 (Yes, Seniors—It’s Your Time!)
Senior year can be a whirlwind, so get ahead now! If you're pursuing college, start by writing your personal statement or essay. Set up your Common App, complete your profile, family, and education sections, and narrow down your list of colleges or universities. Applications open August 1st, so provide yourself breathing room by preparing early.
If you're exploring trade schools, apprenticeships, or certification programs, especially in healthcare-related fields, look into application deadlines, requirements, and open house events. Health pathways often have rolling admissions, licensing steps, and state-specific requirements, so being informed early helps you stay ahead and make the most of every opportunity.
Summer Productivity Tips for Busy Students
- Polish Your Professional Presence! Keep your LinkedIn updated! Start connecting with mentors, former internship hosts, or industry professionals. Even a simple message has the potential to engender meaningful opportunities in the future. If you’re unsure of where to start, follow health organizations, your local hospital system, or leaders in your career path of interest!
- Maximize Your Internships or Volunteering! Make the most of every moment! Whether you're working in a clinic, serving a local nonprofit, or shadowing a medical professional, ask questions, take initiative, and build relationships. Every interaction is a chance to grow and might lead to a letter of recommendation or mentorship.
- Stay Ahead in Academics! If you’re heading into junior or senior year, use summer to brush up on difficult subjects or prep for the SAT/ACT. Even a brief review can help you walk into the fall with confidence! In addition, you can outline organization or CTSO (Career and Technical Student Organization) goals, such as HOSA activities, fundraisers, or new initiatives you seek to lead.
- Create, Don’t Just Consume! Whether it’s writing, coding, painting, cooking, or even starting your own YouTube channel, use summer to pour into something you love. You never know when a hobby could become a side hustle, scholarship portfolio, or future career path.
- Prioritize Wellness! Your health matters most. Stay active, eat well, drink water, and get enough sleep. Build a routine that includes movement and mindfulness; even 15 minutes a day can improve your focus and energy. Did you know Planet Fitness offers free summer memberships to teens? It’s the perfect way to stay active and catch up with friends!
Make This Summer Count!
You don't have to wait for school to start to begin working toward your goals. Invest in yourself now. Prepare with purpose, stay open to new opportunities, and remember that balance is key. Balance means pushing forward and pausing when needed. While you are chasing your aspirations, don't forget to take a breath, enjoy the sunshine, and have fun—you’ve earned it! Get ready for a year of learning, leading, and making bold moves. We can’t wait to see what you accomplish!