Summer often feels like a break from school, but for many students, it’s a crucial time for growth and preparation. The TPP staff is no exception – after all, we are still students. Instead of lounging around, we seize the opportunity to advance our future careers and personal goals. Take Addison, for example—she’s spent her summer rigorously preparing for the SAT to gain entry into her dream college while also securing an internship to gain valuable experience in her chosen field. On the other hand, Jack is gearing up for a future in the Air Force; he’s participated in a three-week training camp where he not only prepared to fly, but actually took the controls of an aircraft. Finally, Ainsley took some time to recoup and recharge. These experiences illustrate how students like Addison and Jack are leveraging their summer to set themselves up for success. Here’s a closer look at their inspiring journeys and what they’ve learned from their summer experiences.
Jack
“This summer I had the honor and privilege to attend the United States Air Force Aim High Flight Academy. This prestigious program accepts approximately 170 elite students across the country and divides them into various host training schools. Students spend 3 weeks learning how to fly an airplane, gaining leadership knowledge, and making unique connections in the Air Force and aviation world. Over the 3 weeks, I was able to acquire 15 flight hours, graduate a ground school curriculum, and even solo – a term that refers to flying an airplane all alone without an instructor present. Through immense hard work and countless hours studying materials and maneuvers, I was able to grow from having little to no flying knowledge to being able to take off, fly around, and land the airplane unassisted. I gained friendships, connections, and overwhelming experiences in which I will take and allow myself to grow into a stronger student and future leader.”
Addison
“This summer I worked to prepare for my last year of high school and gained the skills necessary for further education. I spent the majority of my time studying for vital standardized tests, writing college essays, and shadowing experienced physicians. I especially enjoyed a pharmaceutical event I attended; I had the opportunity to formulate my own lip balm in a compound pharmaceutical lab. These experiences reinforced my life goals and inspired me to work diligently in the upcoming school year.
Though I enjoyed my summer of informational textbooks, I also took personal time to rest and spend time with friends and family. I spent various days on the warm sands of Charleston beaches and discovered my newfound love for escape rooms and complex puzzles. The photo below is a picture of me and one of the incredible pharmacists I had the pleasure of meeting.”
Ainsley
“As a gifted & talented student who will graduate from high school at 16 years old with my Associate’s Degree, I have been working hard at academics my whole life. So when summer comes around, I like to take some time to relax and focus on myself. It’s a good balance, seeing as I do as much as I can during the school year. This summer, I took the time to focus on my work skills. I was able to intern and help in different areas throughout the summer, including social media marketing, and even some coding. On top of these jobs, I had the opportunity to nanny three young children every weekend.
I believe this helped me become more prepared for college life, and to teach in the future. I look forward to what my Senior year has in store, and all the things I am able to help with, including clubs, and tutoring.”
