Summer Enrichment: Expanding Opportunities for Growth

While the snow swirls and summer feels a long way off, it's not too early to consider enrichment activities that go beyond the classroom. Summer is an excellent time for students to enhance their skills, explore new interests, and gain valuable experiences. There are many reasons to consider summer enrichment:

It is important to debunk some common myths about the type and value of summer enrichment that a student may choose to engage in. It is a common misconception that getting into a summer program guarantees university acceptance and that only academic programs that offer credit matter for university applications.

In reality, what admissions officers truly value is the growth students experience. Whether it's an academic program, volunteering, or pursuing a personal passion, the key is the reflection and skills gained from it. Universities won’t be impressed simply because a student does an academic program, even if it is their own. They will, however, appreciate the person that student is becoming as a result of interesting involvement – no matter where or how they get them, especially if the student learns to write reflectively about the experience! (Another purpose of the Springboard surveys, introduced earlier this month.)

Remember, there’s no "one size fits all" for summer enrichment. What matters is what students learn from the experience—whether it’s in the classroom, the community, or abroad; what matters is HOW they do it.   It's the "learning" from the activity that has value, not the activity itself. It is an opportunity to explore, grow, and challenge themself.

Looking for opportunities? Three weekly postings have been shared on the Enrichment page on Edsby featuring opportunities in STEM, humanities, business, leadership, and more. There will also be an updated Padlet collection shared with students in the new year.

Reach out to program providers directly, seek references, apply early, and check age requirements. And don’t forget to ask your student’s guidance counsellor for advice on navigating the many exciting options available!