Summer offers a time for growth, exploration, and deepening interests. Admissions committees value students who have used their time purposefully, engaged in activities that align with their passions, and shown initiative to learn and contribute to the world outside of the traditional classroom.

Thus, Summer activities aren’t just an opportunity to build a standout résumé—they’re a meaningful chance to dive deeper into your interests, explore new subjects, and engage in experiences that foster personal growth. Whether through academic programs, creative projects, internships, or community work, summer is a time to stretch beyond the classroom and develop as a curious, evolving individual navigating the wider world.

At GEO, we take an intentional approach to planning each summer. As the summer before Senior Year is largely devoted to writing the essays and preparing applications, students really only have two or three summers (before 9th, 10th, and 11th grade) to plant the seeds of meaningful adventures. While it’s absolutely fine if you don’t enroll in a formal program, it’s essential to have a clear plan in place. Whether you're pursuing a passion project, working a job, volunteering, or taking courses that expand your intellectual horizons, what matters most is that your summer is purposeful and reflective of the scholar and young adult you are quickly becoming.