What should you do this summer if you are planning on applying to a US Uni? Summers are a great time to work on CV development at any stage of the process. Using your summer holidays to prepare for the extensive US university application process is the best way to make it more manageable and successful. At Vela Education, we know that successful applicants think of the process as a four-year plan.  Below, Vela Education advisors have outlined what you should do this summer based on where you are in your secondary school education.

Year 10: If you just completed your first year of GCSEs or the US equivalent, 9^th grade, then this summer is your most flexible! You still have ample time to work on passion projects and your favourite extracurriculars. This summer, you may want to do the following:

1. Work towards an accomplishment in your favourite activity; If you are an athlete, go to a skills camps or train to improve your prowess on the pitch! If you are an artist, work on developing your portfolio! Spend your free time really refining your talents!
2. If you struggled in any of your courses, you should spend time revising this summer. Your GCSE results are the first academic benchmark! They matter a great deal and ensuring you have the best possible results is your first priority.

Year 11: Congrats on completing your GCSEs! That’s quite a milestone. After you take a well-deserved break, think about doing the following this summer:

1. Take a diagnostic SAT and ACT. These are the two standardized tests US universities use to help compare students in the application pool. Though not all schools require these tests, strong test scores are often an asset in the admission review process. A diagnostic score will help you choose which test and help you determine how much prep you need for a competitive score.
2. You may want to do a US summer program! For students who are not familiar with the US education system or have spent very little time in the States, attending a summer program on a US university campus is a great idea. Taking classes and meeting other students can help you determine if applying to US universities is best for you. Vela Education is happy to help you pick the right programme for you and to help you complete the application process.
3. Always use your summer holiday to pursue your favourite activities!

Year 12: If you are applying to US universities, this is probably your busiest summer!

1. If you haven’t done a tour during the school year, please consider doing one this summer. Even among the most selective US universities, there are significant differences in student life, campus environment, and academics. Vela Education advisors are happy to help you plans a great tour!
2. Get a summer job: US universities value work experience! Summer internships, or even paid jobs, should be or a substantial amount of time—at least three weeks long. Rather than shadow someone at a large organisation, it’s actually better to work for a smaller company or org so you can take on real responsibility. Also, it’s great to do something age appropriate: work in a café, start a dog walking service, run a neighbourhood summer camp for younger students. Vela Education advisors are happy to discuss how you can turn your interests into a great summer job.
3. Work on your US university applications! Aim to have the personal statement done by the end of July. Start working on the Common App and supplemental essays the first week of August. Having the majority of your application completed for your first-choice school before you start year 13 is ideal!

At Vela Education, we believe that using summer break is a great way to prepare for success when you apply to US universities. If you want more information or a personalised plan, consider scheduling a strategic consultation.