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Gone are those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer -- at least for those of you savvy college-bounders. And thank goodness for that! After the first couple of weeks of glorious TV-watching and Internet surfing, you know what's going to happen -- boredom will set in.

Instead, supersize your summer plans by using your sunshine off-days to do some amazing things, says Gen Tanabe, author of Get Into Any College (SuperCollege, 2003).

"Do something you're interested in but that also gives you a concrete achievement you can show colleges to help you stand out," he adds.

So, what sorts of things can make a student such as yourself stand out, you wonder? We've got the scoop from Tanabe on some super summer standout secrets for your  

college applications

 .

Work it!
That's right, summer is a great time to pound the pavement and get a job, not only for some extra beach outing bucks, but to impress your choice colleges. As Tanabe notes, being able to hold a job shows you're motivated, responsible, and hardworking -- all good qualities for prospective students.

Do some project production.
Not enough time to work on your hobby or get your foot in the door of your career interest during the hectic school year? You guessed it -- now's the time to get project happy, says Tanabe. Write that short story you've had in your head for over a year, start your art portfolio, or shadow that uncle who's been promising you an inside look at his law office. Take advantage of the extra time you'll have to do what excites you, and share that dedication to your passion on your college applications come fall.

Go to school.
Yes, we're serious! According to Tanabe, colleges are looking for prospective students who demonstrate a love for learning. Take a class at your high school, or enroll in a course at your community college (a perfect way to get a bird's-eye view of college life, too!).

Take a college trip.
Turn your summer family getaway into a college visit whirlwind tour. Not only will getting a closer look at your choice colleges help with your decision, says Tanabe, but those schools will also take notice of your interest come app time.

Work for free.
That's right, volunteer work is priceless in terms of personal satisfaction rewards, and will show colleges you're willing to give back to your community, assures Tanabe. Try a local children's day camp, hospital, or soup kitchen for starters, or visit www.volunteermatch.org for ideas.


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Dawn Papandrea is the Managing Editor of The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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