You’re stressed, I’m stressed, we are all stressed- being an incoming high school senior is stressful. College applications, getting a job, and the future in general, that little voice in our minds is screaming, trying to figure everything out at once. While it all seems overwhelming, taking a little time to plan or think out your future can make all the difference, from crashing down to rolling smoothly.

Here are some guidelines and tips on how to spend your summer as an incoming high school senior, whether you plan on going to college or not (many of which I am doing myself).

1. Volunteering

Some schools may require volunteer hours (like mine) to graduate at the end of the year; however, if it is not a requirement, it is still amazing to add to your college apps or gain work experience without the pressure. Local libraries, hospitals, education sites, food banks, dog shelters, or other public services are great places to volunteer as they serve you and the community.

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2. Internships

Harder than volunteering, internships are worth the extra effort. If you are uncertain about what career you want to pursue, want to step into the workforce, or are hoping to advance to the position you dream of, internships are the right path for covering all those bases.

You will gain real-world experience and lay the foundation for your future in the workplace. Some internships extend to landing a job or connecting you with other people who can help advance your career, as well (known as networking).

3. Networking

Sometimes it is not only about what you do, but who you know. Connecting with people in your potential field of work can never hurt and may be a deciding factor in who they choose for certain positions (you want to be that person). Catching up through email or small talk before a meeting means more than you realize, and you should challenge yourself to reach out more often.

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4. Driver’s License

If you haven't already or are not turning 18 soon (as you wouldn't have to take the extra courses), working towards getting a license is a definite milestone that comes with plenty of benefits. As someone who put off driving for as long as I could, I know it can be scary and complex when trying to get the permit, take the schooling, pass the test, and then get out onto the road.

I also know it gets easier and less scary the more you put yourself out there. a new wave of responsibilities is coming your way; it can be much easier to schedule events or tasks when not having to worry about getting a ride to and from places.

5. Job/Major Research

You don’t have to know what you want to do with the rest of your life just yet. There is this huge pressure on rising seniors to know what they want and where they want to do it, but it’s never that simple. Realistically, this is just the beginning of figuring things out, and you may be dipping your toes in the water for the first time. That is okay, and you will be just fine.

Researching jobs or majors based on your interests, passions, hobbies, experiences, or life goals is the groundwork to finding something you will enjoy later in life, even if you are not so sure about it now.

By using your intended job or major/s, it will be easier to narrow down the career or college list later on, as some places do not offer what you may be looking for. Be sure to also research future job offerings, potential debt, and the length or difficulty of obtaining a certain degree.

5. Apply for Scholarships

This one is a HUGE deal. There are many scholarships out there just waiting for candidates like you to apply. The more you apply for the better- you never know what you might get!

Some scholarships require fees or an extensive process before/after, so be more selective with those types. Some scholarships are for specific career goals or schools, so research your options because every penny counts.

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6. College Research

Possibly one of the most daunting experiences you’ll ever face- college research and applications. When looking for the right college for you, there are many factors you need to consider. Yes, majors, programs, and professors are important, but housing, food, and transportation need to be considered, too.

You should look for three different types of schools, including safety, match, and reach. Safety schools are places where you’re more confident you could get into, where your stats are above average. Match schools are schools you could possibly get into, your stats are average, and you would be a good candidate.

Reach schools, however, would be where you may not be the average candidate. You might want to consider these less due to your time being pressed.

For some students, this order would be a community college, a state school, then an Ivy League or private university.

7. Visit College Campuses

It is hard to tell what a college campus looks like just from their advertising “perfect” pictures, but visiting the campus is a great way to truly see if it is a good fit for you. Going inside and viewing its libraries, food halls, or other facilities is important because you will be living a few good years of your life in this small area. Travel around the city it is in, as well, and try to find where you feel comfortable while keeping in mind transportation, restaurants, or places to hang out with friends.

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Good luck to all my rising high school seniors! There are many paths to follow, and don't stress too hard about finding the "perfect" one. The world can seem so big and confusing, but following these tips can clear it up and set the stage for a great senior year. Most of all, don't forget to have fun!