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As the famous Phineas and Ferb theme song says,
There’s a hundred and four days of summer vacation
And school comes along just to end it
So the annual problem for our generation
Is finding a good way to spend it

Now, while hunting for Frankenstein’s brain or driving your sibling crazy might sound entertaining, there’s a more productive way to spend your summer—one that could elevate your UG applications and bring you closer to that Ivy League dream. Whether you’re gearing up for the SAT, diving into research, or pursuing a passion project, making intentional choices now can significantly strengthen your profile.

What Makes a Profile Ivy League-Worthy?

Ivy League schools seek more than just stellar academics and high SAT scores. They look for students who take initiative, demonstrate leadership, and showcase intellectual curiosity. Here’s what truly makes a candidate stand out:

  • Independent research and problem-solving abilities
  • Passion for learning beyond the school curriculum
  • Leadership and initiative in extracurricular activities
  • Strong communication and writing skills
  • Dedication to self-improvement and community involvement

Here Are Five Things You Can Do This Summer:

  1. Engage in Research

    One of the most effective ways to strengthen your UG applications is to engage in research. Ivy League universities highly value students who can think critically and apply the scientific method to real-world problems.

    • Find research opportunities with local universities: Send cold emails to professors expressing your interest in assisting with research. Even if they don’t have a position available, they might guide you to other opportunities.
    • Conduct independent research: If you can’t find a mentor, pick a problem around you and apply scientific methods to solve it. For instance, develop a formula to determine the perfect ratio of hot and cold water taps for your desired temperature. The complexity of the problem doesn’t matter—what matters is demonstrating your research skills and initiative.
    • Publish or present your findings: Consider writing a research paper and submitting it to a high school research journal or presenting it at a local science fair. This can help solidify your research experience and add credibility to your work.

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  2. Participate in Summer Programs

    Summer programs can significantly boost your Undergraduate admissions profile by showcasing academic dedication beyond the school curriculum.

    • Summer schools: Enroll in programs offered by prestigious institutions to gain knowledge in your field of interest. Programs like Stanford’s Pre-College programs, UChicago Summer Session, Wolfram Summer Research program are highly competitive but can be excellent learning opportunities. More affordable options are available in India as well – Plaksha’s Young Technology Scholar, Plaksha’s Summer Immersion program, etc.
    • Competitions: Participate in math, science, or writing competitions. Winning or even just competing strengthens your UG applications. Events like the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), American Mathematics Competitions (AMC), and national writing contests can help you stand out.
    • Co-curricular activities: Take summer school courses related to your intended major. These experiences highlight your passion for learning and help you explore subjects in greater depth. Some online platforms, such as Harvard Online Learning and Coursera, offer rigorous courses that can boost your academic profile.

  3. Work on a Passion Project

    A passion project is a powerful way to showcase your uniqueness in the UG admissions process. Ivy League schools look for students who go beyond structured extracurriculars to create something meaningful.

    • Creative projects: Always wanted to write a book? Use this summer to start a poetry collection or a short novel. Love music? Compose a song and release it on platforms like YouTube. Have a unique artistic vision? Bring it to life through painting, photography, or digital art.
    • Technology-based projects: Passionate about technology? Develop an app or website addressing a problem in your community. Even a simple app that helps people organize their schedules or a blog that educates others about a social issue can make an impact.
    • Public impact initiatives: Organize workshops, awareness campaigns, or community discussions on topics you’re passionate about. Creating a real-world impact through advocacy or education will set your profile apart.

  4. Volunteer and Give Back

    Ivy League universities favor students who contribute to their communities.

    • Work with a local non-profit organization: Volunteer your time to support a cause you care about. This could be tutoring underprivileged students, working at a food bank, or helping in an animal shelter.
    • Find a community problem to solve: If you can’t find a non-profit to work with, identify an issue in your community and take action. Organizing a neighborhood clean-up, raising mental health awareness, or tutoring underprivileged students are great ways to showcase leadership.
    • Start an awareness campaign: Many issues persist due to ignorance. Creating blogs, social media campaigns, or workshops can make a significant impact and strengthen your UG applications. If you’re passionate about climate change, mental health, or gender equality, start a podcast, blog, or YouTube channel educating others.
    • Long-term involvement: Instead of short-term volunteering, find a cause you’re deeply invested in and work on it consistently. Long-term commitment demonstrates true dedication and can be more impactful in UG admissions.

  5. Learn a New Skill (or Improve a Weakness)

    Self-improvement is a critical part of the Ivy League mindset. Summer is the perfect time to develop a new skill or strengthen an area where you struggle.

    • Take online courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer courses in coding, business, and creative writing—skills beneficial for UG admissions. Taking courses related to your intended major can help demonstrate subject interest.
    • Learn a new language: Apps like Duolingo can help you develop multilingual abilities, a valuable asset for UG in the US. Learning a new language can also improve cognitive abilities and open up opportunities to study abroad.
    • Practice writing: Strong writing skills are crucial for UG applications, especially for personal statements and essays. Regularly writing essays, blog posts, or even journal entries can improve your communication skills.
    • Work on academic weaknesses: If the English section of the SAT challenges you, read more books to improve comprehension. If you struggle with math, take extra courses and practice problem-solving. Online platforms like Khan Academy offer targeted lessons to help strengthen weak areas.

Bonus Secret Activity: Embrace Boredom

One of the most underrated ways to develop yourself is to step away from distractions. Ivy League schools want students who are genuinely curious and self-driven, not just resume-builders. The goal is not just to get into an Ivy League school but to become the kind of person an Ivy League university wants on its campus.

  • Disconnect from phones and social media: Avoid the constant dopamine rush from digital devices. Set daily screen time limits and use apps that encourage mindful tech use.
  • Engage in physical activity: Exercise enhances cognitive function and mental well-being. Activities like running, swimming, or even yoga can help improve focus and discipline.
  • Allow yourself to be bored: Boredom often leads to the best ideas and deep self-reflection. Without constant entertainment, your mind is free to wander, sparking creativity and introspection.
  • Meditate: Practicing mindfulness can help improve focus and emotional intelligence. Start with short daily sessions using guided meditation apps like Headspace or Calm.
  • Read Widely: Choose books outside of your usual interests. Read philosophy, history, or classic literature to expand your thinking and develop analytical skills.
  • Keep a Journal: Document your thoughts, experiences, and reflections. This habit will improve your writing skills and help clarify your goals and aspirations.
  • Experiment with New Hobbies: Try something unconventional—gardening, pottery, origami, or even learning a musical instrument. Exploring different interests can lead to unexpected passions.
  • Spend Time in Nature: Go for long walks, hike, or just sit in a park without any distractions. Observing nature can enhance patience, creativity, and a sense of well-being.

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