Juniors: What You Should Be Doing This Summer (Start Now)

Mr. John’s Test Prep Families,

Yesterday marked the May 3rd SAT—and if you walked out of that test room with a pit in your stomach or just a feeling that you didn’t hit your stride, do not wait. The June 7 SAT is your next big opportunity. Even if May went well, striving for a higher score now—before summer distractions hit—is one of the best things you can do for your college application.

This summer isn’t just about rest—it’s about strategy. Here's what every rising senior should be thinking about right now:

1. Lock in a Summer Testing Plan

• Retake the SAT on June 7. Don’t let your skills plateau.
• Review past mistakes. Drill them. Get sharper, not rustier.
• If you’re already enrolled in one of my summer bootcamps or one-on-one tutoring, great—we’re building momentum. If not, now’s the time to join.

2. Start Your College Essay—Yes, Now

• Create a draft, even if it’s messy. The hardest part is getting started.
• Brainstorm themes that matter to you, not just what sounds impressive.
• Ask a trusted adult, tutor (👋), or teacher to look it over before August hits.

3. Build a Resume That Tells a Story

• Summer is for growth: internships, research projects, volunteer work, sports camps, small businesses—you name it.
• But here’s the key: don’t do 10 things to “look good.” Do one thing really well that reflects your interests and values.

4. Ask for Teacher Recommendations Early

• The Common App opens August 1. Many early applications are due Nov 1.
• Ask now, before teachers get overwhelmed in the fall.
• Pro tip: Send them a short brag sheet (your resume + interests), and give them plenty of time. (I used to give my college professors a small Amazon gift card as a thank you or, at the very least, a nice thank you card.)

5. Tour Campuses With Purpose

• Visiting colleges? Great. But don’t just walk the grounds.
• Request meetings with admissions reps, professors, or department heads. Show your face and make a connection.
• This is where passion meets planning (and social engineering).

Nothing—absolutely nothing—boosts your admissions odds more than a higher SAT score. So whether you’re retaking the test or leveling up your essay, don’t coast. Summer is your launchpad. Use it well.

Keep digging. Keep trying. Let me know how I can help.

– Mr. John