Model
UN is another valuable program that teaches
students about the world around them, and builds condence
as well as leadership and communication skills. A new
activity picked up on a whim may turn into a lifetime source
of joy or even a career. If options are limited at school, branch
out. Urge your teen to get involved in the local community,
meet new people, and bond with others who share similar
interests. They'll see what's out there in the bigger world while
demonstrating to colleges and employers that they're
engaged beyond the standard classroom requirements.
Service programs help teens gain valuable
perspectiveWhen teens offer their time and talent
to nonprots and worthy causes, they gain more
than just real-world experience for their college
resumes. They gain maturity, perspective,
practical skills and a greater appreciation for
what they've got. Volunteering can be customized
to one's own interests, whether it means walking
dogs at an animal shelter or building a website for
an environmental group. Adventurous students
can take it one step further by participating in
service programs abroad. Whether working to
raise social awareness, lending a hand with
environmental and conservation project, or
mentoring underprivileged youth, teens grow
exponentially during a summer far away from
their usual routine.