Summer Goals for Teens: Setting Yourself Apart in Getting Into College
Summer Goals for Teens: Setting Yourself Apart in Getting Into College
A teenager's first step into college is truly a step into life for themselves. It's a pivotal time where they begin to take ownership of who they want to become, with the tools, environment, and support laid out in front of them. However, getting to that place is challenging, and it all starts in high school. From my perspective, what sets someone apart are three key qualities: curiosity, pursuit, and resilience.
Curiosity
Curiosity is the spark that ignites the desire to learn, grow, and create. It’s what drives teens to explore new subjects, develop new skills, and discover their passions. Ask yourself, what makes your teen curious? What topics or activities excite them and make them want to dive deeper? Understanding the "why" behind their curiosity is essential. It often ties back to their core values and interests. Encouraging teens to follow their curiosity can lead them to unique experiences and knowledge that set them apart from their peers.
When I was a teen, my coach tapped into my curiosity about bikes and carbon fiber, something rooted in my passion for cycling. This was more than just an interest—it was a deep-seated passion that sparked my imagination and drive.
Pursuit
Curiosity alone isn’t enough; it must be paired with the willingness to pursue those interests. Pursuit involves dedication and the willingness to invest time and energy into developing their passions. Is your teen willing to commit to their interests and put in the hard work necessary to excel? This might mean taking advanced courses, participating in extracurricular activities, or pursuing internships and volunteer opportunities. The level of importance and energy they devote to their pursuits can significantly impact their college applications and their personal growth.
With my coach's guidance, I embarked on creating my own carbon fiber bike. This pursuit was challenging and required me to put all my energy and effort into something I was passionate about but knew little about. I failed multiple times, adjusted my scope, and learned resilience.
Resilience
Lastly, resilience is the ability to overcome setbacks and keep moving forward. College admissions officers look for students who can demonstrate perseverance in the face of challenges. How has your teen dealt with failure? Have they learned from their mistakes and come back stronger? Developing resilience is crucial not only for getting into college but for succeeding in life. Encourage your teen to view failures as learning opportunities and to keep pushing towards their goals despite obstacles.
Through my persistence and resilience, I eventually succeeded in making a kids' carbon fiber bike strider. It was one of the best feelings in the world and led me to landing a spot in the mechanical engineering program at Gonzaga University. This project ignited a passion for creating things that continues to this day. It all starts with a spark, and then the fire has unlimited potential.
Setting Summer Goals
Summer is the perfect time for teens to work on these qualities and set themselves apart. Here are a few tips for making the most of the summer:
Identify Interests and Passions: Encourage your teen to explore different subjects and activities to discover what they are passionate about.
Create a Plan: Help them set specific, achievable goals related to their interests. Whether it’s learning a new skill, reading a certain number of books, or starting a project, having clear goals can keep them motivated.
Find Opportunities: Look for summer programs, workshops, internships, and volunteer opportunities that align with their interests.
Encourage Reflection: Have regular check-ins to discuss their progress, challenges, and what they’re learning about themselves.
Build Resilience: Support them in facing challenges and learning from failures. Share stories of resilience and growth from your own experiences or those of others.
Conclusion
The journey to college is not just about academic achievements; it’s about developing as a person. By fostering curiosity, pursuit, and resilience, teens can set themselves apart and prepare for a successful transition into college and beyond. This summer, encourage your teen to take steps towards their goals, embrace their passions, and build the resilience they need to thrive. With the right support and mindset, they can achieve remarkable things and set a solid foundation for their future.
