PYBit 101: Maximizing Your Summer
The RBTeaM counsels high school graduates on how to make the best out of their summer vacation.
Well, summer vacation is finally here. You’ve donned your cap and gown for graduation and now it’s just fun and relaxation until September. Or is it? While your sunbathing and long-overdue volleyball tournament are important, don’t forget that prepping up for college and/or employment should always be a priority. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), 25 percent of high school seniors are ready for college-level reading while 37 percent are proficient in mathematics. In other words, only a third of high school graduates are ready for college-level work in these subjects, as analyzed by the U.S. News & World Report. What does this mean for you? It means it’s time to hit the books and practice your numbers throughout your summer vacation. Not only for those who are prepping for college, but for those going into the workforce. So here are a few things to consider before booking that flight to the Bahamas:
Create a reading schedule. Take a few hours throughout the week to find fiction and non-fiction books to read during the summer. Make sure to also keep up to date with journals and news articles throughout the day. Being eclectic with your reading habits will help build vocabulary and reading comprehension in the future.
Keep your brain active with math games. Download brainteaser apps via your mobile device (phone or tablet), especially those that are math and logic-focused. Practice during any break you have or when traveling. Taking the time to keep yourself on your toes will help to develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Register for summer courses. Not going anywhere this summer? Why not take a college-level course at your local community college? Not only will you adapt faster when the semester rolls along, you may be able to transfer credits to your new school and be one step ahead of your peers.
Update your resume. If a job is what you’re looking for, create and/or update your resume with recent volunteer work or skills you’ve learned. Seek out a counselor, former teacher or parent to look over your resume. And while you’re preparing for the real world, take on the challenge by working as an intern, fellow or volunteer. You will have much more experience on paper with the right skills obtained from professionals in your area of study.
Continue studying. Already heard from your professors during the summer? You will find that homework has been assigned for the upcoming semester. Start any reading assignments and projects early. This will help you get in the habit of managing your work as a college student while helping develop independent skills needed in the workforce.
These steps, among others, will help you become a much more successful college student and professional. Remember, the early bird gets the worm. Start maximizing your summer before it’s too late!
The RBTeaM is committed to help high school students succeed in their post-secondary plans. For more information contact readbetweentheminds@gmail.com.
