Reprint of Article done by
Tasha Lewis, President, International Connections Consulting
for March 2001 edition of NJ Suburban Parent Magazine
 

It's Almost Summer... What Should My Teenager Do This Year?
By Tasha Lewis, International Connections Consulting (ICC)
 
Each year, parents and teens wonder how they should spend their summer. To the parents, the important things are time, money, and quality.  To the teens, it's fun, fun and more fun. What if each of them could find a program that meets all of  those needs?

Parents must realize that students today need competitive advantages for applying to colleges and for future jobs.  If you're wondering how soon your teen should start - the answer is, "As Soon As Possible!" Especially when you consider the rising cost of education  and increasing competition in today's job market.

There are three alternatives/options available that will allow parents and teens to match their  joint goals with end results that meet (and often exceed) their ultimate goals. These are internships, summer programs, and study abroad.

Internship

An internship can be a most rewarding experience for  your teen. It can kick off an international career, help in gaining professional experience, strengthen a resume, and ease the transition from university to the professional world. In addition, teens can start to learn more about time management, money management and quality control. Some sample internship programs are: 

On the other hand, the placement may not be a good match and could create negative feelings for the employer,the teen, or both. As a result, one or the other could desire to terminate their agreement prematurely. Lastly, the youngster's view of future interning might be marred in the event of an initial failure. 

Summer Programs

Summer programs come in a wide variety. They can be academic, artistic or sports-oriented. Academic programs can build upon or improve the teen's current academic foundation. This is especially desirable for students who need more specialized attention in specific areas. Here are a few ideas: 

• Pre-College Programs 
• Foreign Study Programs 
• Fast-Track Study Programs
• Cultural Study Tours 
• Credited exchange programs 
• Summer schools and camps 

Artistic and sport programs can help train and enhance your child's special talents. Some possible choices are: 

• Badminton 
• Basketball 
• Big Band 
• Bridge Club 
• Chess
• Computing 
• Community Service 
• Choir 
• Cricket 
• Debating 
• Driving Courses 
• Drama & Drama Workshop 
• Golf 
• Hockey Ice 
• Hockey
• Photography 
• Public Speaking 
• Rugby 
• Rock 
• Bands 
• Rock 
• Climbing 
• Skiing 
• Soccer 
• Softball 
• Squash 
• Swimming 
• Table Tennis
• Theatre 
• Sports 
• Tennis 
• Tramping 
• Volleyball 
• Vocal Group (Senior) 
• Weight Training 
• Windsurfing 
• Yachting 

Like internships, summer programs may not be a good fit for an individual teen. As a result, your kid could become homesick or not get along with the other people in the programs. Lastly, the youngster's view of future summer opportunities might be affected if the experience is unpleasant. 

Study Abroad

Study abroad programs are an excellent opportunity for your child to develop multi-cultural awareness and obtain invaluable skills. From learning a foreign language to understanding cultural differences, your teenager can learn some of the most critical and marketable skills that will carry her through life. Most companies consider a study abroad opportunity an essential component to make it in today's global environment. Credited and non-credited foreign study programs are offered in a variety of academic fields of study as well as language study. Many schools offer standard & customized curriculums. 

One of the main potential drawbacks to this option is that your child may not become well adjusted to the local customs or food. Additionally, the program may not be a good match and create negative emotions about the culture without proper preparation prior to the trip. Finally, the participant may want to return home sooner than expected. 

Once you decide which one of these summer alternatives works for your family, you'll need to find the best program. Companies that specialize in educational advising are an excellent start. Utilizing their services can save you time and money. Plus, they offer a wider selection of quality programs than you are likely to locate on your own. There may or may not be a fee required. Some have local offices or web sites. All of the major search engines offer a wide variety of organizations and programs. Investigate local Camp Fairs in your area (you'll find some listed in the Calendar Of Events at www.NJParentWeb.com). Other options would be high school career counselors, word of mouth, study abroad magazines/books, libraries, and bookstores. Most importantly, get references  or testimonials from previous participants. 

Good luck! whatever your final choice may be.