Does Summer School Count on the Common App? (Spoiler: It’s Complicated)
You’re staring at the Common App, and a million questions are swirling in your head. How do you handle those summer courses? Do they even matter? Should you even mention that you spent your summer learning about the intricacies of quadratic equations or dissecting frog embryos?
Relax, fellow applicant! We’re here to unravel the mystery of summer school and the Common App. Buckle up for a bumpy ride through the labyrinth of college applications, where every choice has the potential to be a game-changer – or at least a cause for anxiety.
The Short Answer: It Depends
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to summer school and the Common App. It depends on a few factors:
- Where you took the course: Summer classes taken at your high school will likely be on your transcript, so no need to rehash them. But if you tackled those equations at a college or online, it’s time to get fancy with the Common App.
- The course content: Are you talking about a summer program that allowed you to dive deep into your future major or a summer camp where you learned how to build a birdhouse? The content matters.
- Your overall application: Does your application scream “I’m a well-rounded individual with a passion for learning” or “I’m a rich kid who took fancy summer classes”? Be mindful of the message you want to send.
The Common App: A Minefield of Confusion
Navigating the Common App is like trying to find your way through a jungle without a map. It’s full of hidden paths, confusing signposts, and enough “Additional Information” sections to make you want to throw your laptop out the window.
But fear not! We’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of how to handle summer school on the Common App:
1. The ‘Education’ Section: Your High School’s BFF
If your summer classes were taken at your high school and are on your transcript, you can relax. Colleges will see them as part of your high school record. But if those summer courses were taken elsewhere, like a college or online program, you’ll need to add them to the ‘Education’ section. Think of it like adding a new friend to your social media account – you provide the details (school name, dates attended, courses taken).
2. The ‘Additional Information’ Section: Your Opportunity to Shine (or Not)
This is where you can explain your summer shenanigans and why they make you a stellar applicant. Did you spend the summer researching a complex scientific theory? Did you volunteer at a local shelter? Did you master the art of making a mean mac and cheese? (Okay, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea). This is your chance to showcase your passions and demonstrate your commitment to learning.
3. The ‘Other Courses’ Section: A Catch-All for the Unconventional
If your summer courses were taken outside of your high school (college, online program, etc.) but don’t really fit into the ‘Education’ section, the ‘Other Courses’ section is your go-to. Just be aware that this section only allows you to select one academic year for all “other courses.” So, you’ll need to choose the year that best reflects the majority of your summer courses.
4. The ‘Activities’ Section: Your Summer Adventures (Maybe)
You might be tempted to list your summer camps or internships in the Activities section, but hold on! Listing summer camps might just make you look like someone who had the privilege to attend them. It’s a delicate dance, and you want to make sure you’re highlighting activities that genuinely reflect your interests and achievements.
So, Should You List Your Summer School on the Common App?
The answer is still… it depends!
- If your summer learning was significant: A summer program at a prestigious university that allowed you to explore your field of interest or a research experience that led to a publication can definitely add value to your application.
- If your summer learning was just for fun: A summer camp or a summer course that didn’t involve any real academic rigor might not be worth mentioning. Unless you learned how to juggle flaming torches while reciting Shakespeare. Then, by all means, add it in!
Remember, the Common App is all about showcasing who you are and what you can bring to a college community. Don’t feel pressured to list every single summer activity you engaged in. Be selective and focus on experiences that genuinely reflect your passions, skills, and accomplishments.
The Bottom Line: Be Strategic and Don’t Stress
The Common App is a beast, and the summer school question is just one of many hurdles you’ll encounter. Take a deep breath, prioritize the experiences that truly matter, and remember that there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to college applications. Just be honest, be authentic, and be yourself!
Need Further Help?
Navigating the world of college applications can be overwhelming. If you need extra support or want to discuss your specific situation, the JobLoving community is here to help. We offer a wealth of resources, tips, and advice to guide you through the application process.
Good luck, future college student! You’ve got this.