Ahhh. Summer time. The best time to relax and take vacations with loved ones. While there is more leisure time to enjoy the moment, summer is also the best time to prepare for a student’s next big life stages. Whether that’s promoting from middle school, graduating from high school, or searching the career world post-college-grad.

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This article discusses how you can get ahead of the game and be prepared more in advance, rather than procrastinating until the last minute and stressing out. Also, even if you’re not preparing for one of these life-changing transitions, these tips will help anyone “Glo Up” for the summer.

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Advice for Middle Schoolers heading into High School

1. Get involved. There are so many new faces at high school. One way to make sure you don’t feel overwhelmed is to get involved with clubs, organizations, or sports teams at your school. This will not only help you meet new people and make more friends, but it will also give you structure and help you figure out what you’re interested in or passionate about doing after high school.
2. Get excited. There are so many events that are going to be happening every week in high school. Make sure you go to as many as you can to fully enjoy these special moments and unforgettable memories with your peers.
3. Get motivated. How you set yourself up for high school will make it easier to adjust to more challenging life transitions, such as going to university or entering the workforce. Whether it’s staying organized in activities, studying for classes, or putting effort into academics, these examples will all help you improve your time management and benefit you in the future.

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Author’s Personal Story: Before going to Chaparral High School, I was super shy and anxious in most social situations. I knew entering high school would be a fresh start, so I started introducing myself to everyone in all my classes. I met so many new people and made friends that when COVID-19 hit, I knew I still had support from my friends. After that, I wanted to make my last two years of high school count, and I started getting involved with joining Yearbook and ASB. My friends I met through the classroom or my extracurricular activities are still some of my best friends today and impacted the person I wanted to be in college and developed my interests for my future career path.

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Tips for High Schoolers going into College

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1. Take advantage of the resources at your college. Many colleges offer support systems that help with mental health, time management, interview preparation, tutoring for upcoming tests, and essay review. These resources are crucial for your personal and academic success and are usually free. Take advantage of them now, as you might have to pay for similar services after you graduate.
2. Keep staying involved. Engaging in campus life is your ticket to personal growth, academic success, and professional development. Dive in and watch yourself thrive! Continuing your involvement with extracurricular activities, applying for internships, and joining communities on your campus will allow you to create meaningful relationships and friendships.

3. Network. Reach out to people who work in your dream career or field of study. Networking is not always about getting a job or internship, but it's about taking inspiration from them and forming genuine connections with them.

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Author’s Personal Story: Going into college was a little easier since I knew I had friends back home, but it really hit hard when my parents dropped me off in my dorm at UC Santa Barbara. At that moment, I knew I had to spread my wings even more. That first day of freshman year, as I was decorating my room, I left my door open in hopes of people on my floor coming in and introducing themselves. I was fortunate to find girls just like in high school who were a great support system and helped me learn more about myself. While I’m still in college, I’m grateful for everyone I’ve met and all the extracurricular activities I’m involved in. Whether that’s internships or clubs such as Women in Media and UCSB TV, I’m excited to continue expanding my horizons and take on new opportunities and challenges after graduation.

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Strategies for Recent College Grads Entering the Workforce

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1. “Closed mouths don’t get fed.” My mentor told me this is the most important thing to remember when navigating your future career path. Take every opportunity and go the extra mile, asking how you can help your company or directly asking a hiring manager if they will hire you. Your confidence and communication skills will make you stand out and influence your employer to let you take on a new task or new job position.
2. Find a Mentor. A mentor can be anyone, whether they work at a different company or right next to you. Mentors are invaluable for offering advice and discussing your career goals. Regular check-ins with your mentor keep you motivated and provide opportunities to pivot and explore new interests. Regardless of age or experience level, you and your mentor can share insights and inspire each other to grow.
3. Always be kind. Don’t burn bridges with anyone, no matter if they reject you for a position or if you’re tired of your job. Kindness will lead you throughout your career journey, and you never know who’s recommended you might need to reach your dream job.

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Author’s Note

Thank you for reading my article! You can stay connected with me through LinkedIn

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