<p>My sophomore-junior summer is turning out to be a disaster. I feel like I'm wasting so much time because this summer was ill-planned. Academics are my greatest asset, but I understand that is not enough to get into the top universities. What's worse, I am severely lacking in EC's (aiming for HYPS).</p>
<p>This summer, all I am slated to do is an intensive SAT class (in preparation for the October SAT - shooting for a 2400), volunteer at the local hospital, do research at a university (hopefully aiming for a publication) and practice tennis (have been on varsity, freshman and sophomore year but I am not good enough for any recognition past varsity). Unfortunately, it is far too late to sign up for any summer programs or summer classes at the local university... </p>
<p>What should I do? Should I be content with my ridiculously relaxed schedule and just focus on getting that 2400 SAT? The problem with my schedule is, I have so much spare time that I tend to burn it all away doing pointless things on the computer or on facebook - I can't control myself! Any tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>mrlaurencenguyen, your comment made me smile. Thanks, I think I needed that. Ironic though, my parents specifically wouldn’t let me go on vacation because I “need to devote all my time to preparing for the SAT”. Ugh.</p>
<p>No offense, while what you have planned is great and everything, those activities are very typical of HYPS applicants. Why not try something more unique?</p>
<p>HHFASH: No offense taken; that is what I am worried about too. I feel as though I will just be another typical Asian American applicant… What constitutes “unique” though? And is it okay if I just take it easy for one summer, or should I try to get a job or find another volunteer position somewhere?</p>
<p>M’s Mom: I beg your pardon? I am entirely sincere when I ask for help in this post.</p>
<p>Okay - sorry for the double post, but I would like to ask a question that is easier to answer and does not so specifically apply to my personal experience. Will one summer of relative inactivity extracurricular-wise hurt my admissions chances in any way?</p>
<p>I do feel that what will make you unattractive to colleges is what would make you unattractive to anyone as a person: having no interests. </p>
<p>Certainly there is something you can “do” that would answer the question, “What did you do last summer?” besides “I studied for the SAT.” Even if it was taking a walk for an hour every day - maybe with a journal, or a bird-watching guide, or a camera - and recording what you saw and thought about: THAT is an attractive person. Or if you’re not the outdoorsy or active type, and if you only have a 2-hour break a day from studying try - for example - to watch every Oscar-winning “Best Picture” for the last 50 years. </p>
<p>It would be nice if you had an “activity” that had a name, or that earned money, or won prizes. But that isn’t what “everybody” does. My D couldn’t find a job this summer, so she asked someone who does the work she wants to do someday if she could help them - do anything - for free. They now have a very fun small internship that she can put on her resume. No money, but she’ll certainly have something interesting to talk about, even if she only spends 4-5 hours a week on it.</p>
<p>Be an interesting person. Someday you will have your whole life that’s yours to do what you want with. Learn how to feel good about what you care about and how you spend your time.</p>