Some may dread a summer of lying on their bed and staring at the ceiling, but many ways exist to overcome this seemingly unsolvable issue. Participating in academic programs over the summer may sound like a bore, but there is more to them than just sitting in a classroom in the hot summer heat. Here are different ways and programs one can do to prepare for summer — the academic way.
Find a Program that Fits Your Interests:
It may seem like a daunting task to have to research for programs to do over the summer but look no further. The following include some recommendations for programs one may find interest in over the summer, and if not, some inspiration on what programs to research.
Florida International University, Journalism Jumpstart:
From June 17-28, participants get an immersive experience in journalism at one of the top journalism programs in Florida. There are many different opportunities to have your work published in this program, such as being published in the program’s newspaper, the Jumpstart Journal, producing a live news show or producing video, photo and data journalism. Furthermore, there is even an opportunity to compete for the Dow Jones News Fund scholarship. The deadline to apply is June 10. Click here to apply.
National Geographic Trip to Costa Rica:
While on the pricier side, this 17-day trip to Costa Rica is full of luscious tropical landscapes and new experiences for anyone who joins. Attendees can choose the field they want to focus on, whether it be photography or anthropology, culture and tradition, and touch into those subjects on their trip. Flights depart from Miami, making it a convenience for those in the area. For more information on the trip, applications and a full itinerary, click here.
Apply to Volunteer around Miami:
Whether it be as a summer camp counselor, doing multiple volunteer programs or helping out at a senior citizen center, there are many volunteer organizations that one can take part in over the summer. Even if it is not a program that spans multiple days or weeks, find different one-day events and try to go once or even twice a week.
Become a Jewish Community Center Counselor:
Alper JCC’s summer program has applications to be a counselor, with a full session at camp being from June 17- Aug. 2. Ninth to 10th graders are placed in the Counselor in Training group and must register separately from regular counselor registration as a camper. 11th grade and up are required to apply for the position of Camp Counselor through this link.
Stay Up-to-Date with Volunteer Miami Programs:
Although it may not seem like there are many programs in the area to volunteer, United Way’s Volunteer Miami project has a program as often as they can. Although it may only be one day of service, the feeling of helping others is a reward in itself. For upcoming volunteer projects, the link is here.
Do Community Service Abroad:
If none of the options in Miami peak your interest, there are many ways to give back to the community, even if it is not your community. Here are two community service opportunities that can serve as inspiration for those who want a change of scenery and community for the summer:
1. Hawaii Service and Adventure:
For 20 days, spanning from June 30 – July 19, participants from grades eighth through 10th travel to Hawaii to provide aid for those affected by environmental issues. Participants work with many different community service programs, cleaning reefs, assisting impoverished youths and other programs. When not aiding the community, there are activities such as ziplining, snorkeling and learning how to use an outrigger canoe. In exchange for going on this trip, one can receive 50 community service hours, the President’s Volunteer Service Award and a once-in-a-lifetime experience in paradise. To enroll, click here.
2. Costa Rica Children’s Camp:
This 17-day trip to Costa Rica helps teens develop leadership skills, as those who attend will act as camp counselors to the children attending the program. The day camp will be run in the small rainforest town of Arenal, where participants can gain connections with the kids, as well as be able to plan activities for the kids to do. Some highlights from the program include: learning to surf, whitewater rafting and visiting the Playa Samara beach. In addition to opening the attending teens’ minds to the rich culture of Costa Rica, they are also rewarded 55 service hours and the President’s Volunteer Service award. The dates for the program are from June 28 – July 14, and from July 26 – Aug. 11. Link to apply is here.
While this may not cover the vast amount of options for programs one may have over the summer, the above are some inspiration. So, once you finding a program or no-school activity for the summertime, worry about rotting in bed no longer.
