Make summer count
You could spend summer lying around doing nothing. But why would you want to? There are tons of cool ways to banish boredom and get ahead.

Take a road trip
Summer is the perfect time to check out schools—online or in person! Take advantage of family vacations or business trips and check out some schools. You don't have to worry about where you want to go in particular. Just get a feel for college in general.

Do what you love...
...and love what you do! Get involved in some activities that you're into and that will dress up your college applications down the road.

Start thinking dollars and cents
If you hear about a financial aid night for parents, tell them about it.

Get a head start on scholarship applications
There are millions of scholarships, but you'll never find them if you don't look. From local organizations to online searches, look everywhere and plan to apply. Scope out the kinds of essays you might need to write in order to apply and start brainstorming. It'll make things much easier later.

A little summer writing
Feeling nervous about your college admissions essay? Scribble out some practice essays. Writing's like anything else—you get better the more you do it.

Early action on early decision
If you plan to send in early decision applications, visit the schools again and make sure you're willing to commit. If meeting costs is a concern, visit the financial aid office on your visit.

Compare apples to apples
Figure out how colleges stack up according to what matters most to you. The goal isn't to find the "best" school (there's no such thing!)—it's to find the best school for you.

Finalize your list
Put the finishing touches on your college list. In a few short weeks, it will be time to start working on your applications. Be sure to include a few safety schools.