For students, summertime brings more flexible schedules and many may find extra time on their hands. This makes the perfect opportunity for students to take time to invest in their future.
Whether this means community college courses that can earn students college credits, internships that help gain real life experiences or a summer job that allows students to make money for a future goal like a car or college.
Poway High counselor Monica Taylor and guidance tech Jaime Brown can help students with signing up for dual enrollment classes and guide students through the community college application process.
Counselors also promote many nearby internship possibilities at the website https://secure.smore.com/n/xfndu-volunteer-jobs-internships-more which gives students a list of volunteer work that will boost their academic careers.
“We have an internship newsletter with local opportunities. Students can find this information on the PHS Counseling webpage. Students can visit the Titan Center for guidance on applications,” Brown said.
“If an internship isn’t immediately available, consider volunteering. This can provide similar experiences and may lead to internship opportunities in the future,” she added.
Internships can round out colleges’ view of students, as they demonstrate their work that students put into skills and passions.
“If you complete an internship in an area that you are interested in, you are demonstrating your dedication and commitment to an area of study, so this does enhance how colleges see you. Also, completing an internship shows responsibility and maturity, similar to holding a job,” Taylor said.
Summer jobs can also help students gain independence and save up money while also having fun and staying busy.
Junior Kaylaine Le works at an elementary school ESS (Extended Student Services) program throughout the summer.
Colleges and future places of employment often view jobs like this as a display of an individual’s commitment and work ethic.
“I think that it is important to have a summer job because it gives students a chance to build work experience,” Le said.
Le’s job has helped her build a good work ethic, independence, responsibility and organization skills.
Even though summer schedules can get busy, it pays off.
“It gives students a chance to keep busy and save up money for the following year,” Le said.
Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of opportunities as students have the extra time to get ready for their future.
