Summertime: A Lesson in Life Balance

For a high school student, there’s no single “right” way to spend a summer vacation. Yet, many students and their families are concerned that without a “productive” summer vacation, then a student diminishes opportunities for college admissions. However, this is not necessarily true.

Selection for college admissions is becoming increasingly subjective, thus no one summer activity or lack thereof will diminish one’s chances for admission. Instead, it’s more important for students to engage activities which are interesting and they can learn more about their passion.

When choosing summer activities, it is important to ask “why?” What is the motivation for participating in a particular activity? What does a student hope to learn? By understanding one’s own motivations, students can choose activities that are meaningful to them.

Even if students are digital gaming, they often learn valuable skills, like strategic thinking, cooperation, and an understanding of their leadership skills.

Students can also discover a balance between work and relaxation during summer vacation, which is an important life skill. While parents may differ from their teens’ definition of a work-life balance, students can also learn how to communicate their views in a trusted relationship, like with their families. Additionally, students can learn from their parents’ strategies about how to stay refreshed and motivated.


To learn more how experts at Creative Marbles Consultancy, a full service educational advisory, help families resolve complex educational concerns to prepare for the complicated labor markets, click creativemarbles.com

Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

About Jill Yoshikawa, Ed M, Partner of Creative Marbles Consultancy

Jill Yoshikawa, EdM, Harvard ’99, a seasoned, 25 year educator and consultant, is meticulous in helping clients navigate all aspects of the educational experience, no matter the level of complexity. She combines educational theory with experience to advise families, schools and educators. A UCSD and Harvard graduate, as well as a former high school teacher, Jill works tirelessly to help her clients succeed.
View all posts by Jill Yoshikawa, Ed M, Partner of Creative Marbles Consultancy →