Summer programs in Canada

I am going to give it to you straight. Getting into college or university is hard. But if you want to get ahead of the crowd and prepare yourself for the rigorous application process—as well as the transition from high school to postsecondary school, then you can make your attack instead of sitting back and letting the competition pass you by.

When this summer rolls around, skip vegging in front of the television to catch up on your soaps, and instead head to a college or university in your area to see what programs they have to offer. Or contact different organizations and companies to see what they offer in way of summer programs. There are many classes you can take and programs available that can improve your chances of acceptance and prepare you for first year at postsecondary school. And you’ll have a great time while you’re at it.

The University of Western Ontario, located in London, is one university that offers courses to teens. Western offers high school students the opportunity to improve their writing skills with a class fittingly called the Summer Academic Writing Program. Throughout the course, students learn the difference between high school and university writing. You will learn helpful writing techniques and uncover all those bad habits you should lose before writing your first college or university essay. This type of course is available at schools across the province.

Leslie Gloor is assistant coordinator of Western’s transitional programs. Her job is to help students become more comfortable with the thought of attending university. Such courses—Western’s is called Ready For University!—cover writing skills, library research, reading and testing tips and more, says Gloor.

Attending a transitional program, Gloor says, can help students feel more at ease when making the transition from high school to university. It is more in-depth than a simple orientation day and teaches students the studying and organizational techniques needed in postsecondary school.

The University of Waterloo offers a similar program called “Student Life 101,” in which you learn how to survive university. Waterloo also hosts science camps over the summer. And no, you are not a geek if you attend a science camp. The Engineering Science Quest programs, for example, run all summer and toss you into the world of technology, computer programming, Web design and science experiments.

If you’re looking for a different kind of fun over the summer, try the Vancouver Film School (VFS). VFS offers all kinds of hands-on classes geared towards students ages 13 to 18 who want to enter the entertainment industry or visual arts production. You can try filmmaking, audio production, animation or other classes. VFS throws you into all aspects of the film industry. You’ll learn to direct, edit, write and act. Space is limited, so plan early. The classes can help you decide whether or not the film industry is the right career choice for you.

If you are really looking for an adventure this summer, try working as a stewardship ranger through the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. This is open to 17-year-olds who are in good physical condition and can handle the rigors of working outdoors. You will learn all about forest management while doing things like planting trees, and fish and wildlife management. The bonus for this program? You will get paid! And it’s great experience.

This summer, make use of your leisure time and enrol in a class or program that will help lead you down your postsecondary path. Investigate the schools and courses in your area, and jump right in!

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