How to Unplug This Summer

School’s out for the summer, which means no more assignments, projects, or tests to prepare for. With a break from the usual school and extracurricular schedules, high school students have a lot more time — and freedom — on their hands. While it may be tempting to veg out in front of screens all day, scrolling through social media or playing video games, summer is actually the perfect opportunity to disconnect and recharge. Ready to make the most of it? Here are five ways to unplug and dive into a more fulfilling summer.

Outdoor Adventure Camps

Summer is perfect for getting outside, leaving the screens behind, and experiencing the great outdoors. Why not check out an outdoor adventure camp? These programs offer activities like hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, horseback riding, orienteering, and more. These camps challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and develop valuable skills like self-reliance, teamwork, and problem-solving. Along the way, you’ll gain confidence, make lifelong friends, and create unforgettable memories while immersed in breathtaking natural surroundings.

Volunteering in Your Community

If you want to stay closer to home this summer, consider volunteering with a local organization. Whether you get involved with an animal shelter, environmental cleanup group, mentoring program, or community food bank, you’ll give back to your community and develop valuable life skills. Volunteering teaches empathy, responsibility, and leadership — and helps you build connections with others who share your values. Beyond making a difference, it’s an incredibly fulfilling experience that can shape your future and open doors to new opportunities.

Artistic Pursuits

Resting and recharging doesn’t have to mean sitting around the house all day — instead, why not explore a creative hobby? Engaging in artistic pursuits encourages you to connect with your creative side and explore new approaches to self-expression. Pottery, painting, playing an instrument, dancing, writing, or other creative activities provide a fun, screen-free break while promoting mindfulness and stress reduction. With practice — and without the pressure to be perfect — artistic hobbies help you develop new skills, boost your confidence, and express your emotions in a healthy, productive way. Best of all, they can lead to a lifelong passion or even inspire a future career.

Learning New Skills or Hobbies

If art isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other skills and hobbies worth exploring this summer. You could experiment with new recipes, try a sport, pick up crochet, or learn a language — there’s no shortage of possibilities! Taking classes or workshops can help you master a new skill. Starting something with friends — like a sports team, a book club, or even a DIY project — can be a fun way to maintain in-person connections, too. These activities keep you engaged and allow you to meet like-minded people and discover new interests.

Exploring Local Nature or Cultural Spots

However you choose to fill your summer, don’t forget about what your community offers. Explore nearby parks, museums, and other cultural attractions you might not have time to visit during the school year. Checking out local state parks, farmers' markets, or festivals and fairs is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and get to know your area better. Whether discovering hidden gems or revisiting familiar spots, spending time in your community is a great way to stay active and change up your routine.

With so many options, there’s no excuse not to unplug this summer. Think outside the box and try something different in your free time. That way, when school rolls around again, you’ll have made some amazing memories and have cool experiences to share with friends — and on college admissions essays, too.

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to Summer Programs here.