Making Summer Count

The day you've been waiting for has finally arrived. You're about to graduate from high school. The last four years of hard work and preparation are about to pay off. What's next? Three months of rest before you move on to college? Well, summer can be a time to relax and reflect, but if you want to make the most of that time to ensure that you're fully prepared for freshman year. Read our tips.

Check Out Your University's Course Catalog
Many colleges will give you the opportunity to sign up for fall classes early. Check out your school's catalog for courses that interest you. If you haven't yet chosen a major, general education requirements might help to steer you in the right direction. The variety of class options available will likely be much greater than what you had in high school, so be sure to take advantage.

If you've already chosen a major, you can mix up your schedule with specialized classes and general education requirements. This may also be a good time to declare a minor, if you wish. A minor can be useful if you're torn between two major options.

Buy Your Books Ahead of Time
If you're able to schedule your classes early, it will also be beneficial to purchase your books as soon as possible. University bookstores often have a mix of new and used books. Used books are in acceptable condition, but can also save you a lot of money. Other options for purchasing college textbooks include websites like Textbooks.com and ECampus.com. You can often find great deals at sites like these.

Continue Scouting Financial Aid Options
You may think that all financial aid sources are depleted come summer, but with a little research, you can continue to locate new scholarships and grants through the summer months. Scholarship sources include your chosen university, organizations to which you belong, and websites such as this and CareersAndColleges.com.

Don't Underestimate Your Summer Job
Summer jobs, whether they entail mowing lawns, working at the local burger joint, or temping in an office, allow you to acquire skills that can help you in your college career and in the future. They can also teach you about responsibility and money management.

Continue Your Education
If you feel like your brain could use a rest over the summer months, try enrolling in a class doing something you enjoy, whether it's a basketball camp, a cooking class, or a creative writing workshop. Keep yourself busy so your mind remains sharp and you're ready for college in the fall.

Volunteer!
Though you've already been accepted to college, it doesn't hurt to involve yourself in community service. Volunteer to clean up a local park or highway. Spend time at a retirement community. Organize activities for children at a local camp. Any effort you put forth will serve to make you a better-rounded person.

The bottom line is that though summer is upon you, don't get lazy! There are plenty of opportunities out there to keep busy and prepare for the next four years of your life as a college student.