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Last Updated: July 2026
Parents often ask me:
"What should my student be doing this summer to prepare for college?"
The answer depends on whether your student is entering senior year (Class of 2027). Regardless of grade level, summer is one of the most valuable times to prepare for college because students have fewer academic demands and more time to focus on meaningful planning.
The students who experience the least stress during the admissions process are rarely the ones with the highest GPAs alone; they're the students who begin with a clear strategy.
Quick Answer
What should the Class of 2027 be doing now?
Students entering senior year should:
- Finalize a balanced college list.
- Begin writing the Common Application personal statement.
- Prepare scholarship applications.
- Organize extracurricular activities and accomplishments.
- Plan recommendation letters.
Build a Balanced College List
One of the biggest mistakes families make is applying only to dream colleges, or only to colleges they have heard of.
Instead, students should develop a balanced list that includes:
- Reach colleges
- Target colleges
- Likely colleges
Each school should also be evaluated for:
- Academic programs
- Campus culture
- Career opportunities
- Affordability
- Merit aid
- Overall fit
Remember: the best college is not necessarily the most famous one. It is the college where your student can thrive academically, socially, and financially.
Start the Personal Statement
The Common Application essay is one of the few places where students can share their personality beyond grades and test scores.
Strong essays are thoughtful, authentic, and personal. They are rarely written in a single weekend.
Summer is the ideal time to:
- Brainstorm ideas.
- Reflect on meaningful experiences.
- Write multiple drafts.
- Receive constructive feedback.
- Refine the final essay before application season becomes busy.
Organize Activities and Achievements
Admissions officers look for students who demonstrate commitment, growth, leadership, and impact.
Create a master list that includes:
- Clubs
- Leadership positions
- Athletics
- Employment
- Volunteer service
- Research
- Creative pursuits
- Awards and honors
- Community involvement
Having this information organized now makes completing applications much easier later.
Create an Admissions Timeline
Successful applications rarely happen by accident.
Develop a calendar that includes:
- Application deadlines
- Essay deadlines
- Scholarship deadlines
- Recommendation requests
- College visits
- Financial aid milestones
- Interview opportunities
A timeline reduces stress and helps students avoid last-minute mistakes.
This guide outlines the most important steps your family should take now to help your student prepare for a successful college application journey.