Summer often brings a much-needed break for students, but it doesn’t have to be a pause on progress. In fact, it can be the perfect time to build momentum toward college and career goals. With the right tools, planning and encouragement, counselors can play a key role in helping students use the summer months as a launchpad for the future.
Here’s how counselors can help students stay focused, feel empowered and make tangible strides—even while school is out.
Create a Personalized Summer Success Plan
Counselors can meet with students (virtually or in person) at the end of the school year to set a summer roadmap tailored to their goals. This plan can include:
- Academic enrichment (summer school, online courses, or dual enrollment)
- Career exploration activities
- College research or campus visits
- Volunteer or work opportunities
Student Tip: Use a planner or free app (like Trello or Google Calendar) to stay organized and accountable for your summer goals.
Host a “College & Career Summer Series”
Offer a light-touch virtual or hybrid workshop series throughout the summer. Just 1–2 events per month can keep students engaged.
Ideas for Workshops:
- Writing a standout personal statement
- Building a resume or LinkedIn profile
- Understanding FAFSA and scholarship searches
- Interview skills and mock interview sessions
Bonus: Invite alumni or local professionals to speak and share real-world insight.
Provide a Summer Resource Kit
Equip students with tools they can use at their own pace. This can be digital or a printed handout.
What to Include:
- A college application timeline
- Scholarship tracker sheet
- Career interest assessments
- Recommended summer reads or documentaries connected to careers
Encourage Job Shadowing or Internships
Encourage students to explore industries of interest through short-term opportunities. Even a 1-day shadowing experience can spark curiosity and clarify goals.
Counselor Tip: Partner with local businesses, nonprofits and city offices to create a list of places willing to host students.
Keep Communication Open
Summer can get quiet but a monthly text, email or social media post can go a long way in reminding students: “We see you, and we’re here.”
Try This:
- “June check-in: What’s one thing you're doing this month that supports your future self?”
- Send scholarship alerts or deadlines
- Share motivational quotes or mini success stories
Prepare Rising Seniors for the Application Season
- Summer is the ideal time to get ahead before senior year kicks off. Counselors can:
- Help them draft a college list
- Begin requesting recommendation letters early
- Review transcripts and test score timelines
Student Tip: Set a weekly goal to tackle one small task—college prep doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when broken down.
Final Thought:
Summer doesn’t have to be a setback—it can be a “slayed”. A time to write new goals, explore new interests, and take intentional steps toward the future. With the support of counselors and a thoughtful plan, students can stay focused and feel confident entering the next school year, already a step ahead.
“Summer doesn’t have to be a setback — it’s a chance to slay your goals!”
