As the 2025 school year comes to a close, McLean students are thinking ahead towards summer break. However, their sights are not just set on pool days or road trips, but also academic preparation for eventual college applications. According to a schoolwide survey, around 50% of students are planning to spend their summer focused on academics rather than leisure.
In a recent Google Form distributed to students, 48.1% reported that they will be taken on more academic than leisure pursuits during summer break. From SAT prep courses and college essay workshops to internships and summer school, students are showing a clear focus on their future.
“I’m trying to prioritize getting my common app and college essays started this summer,” junior Kate Sheehan said. “I want to try to get a good head start so that I’m not as stressed going into the fall.”
However, not everyone is pouring their focus into academics. Nearly 52% of students plan to instead enjoy their breaks with leisure activities like traveling, spending time with friends and family, or just catching up on rest. For some, a well-earned break is just what they need, especially after a year of McLean’s rigorous academic classes.
“I’m going to Turkey this summer,” sophomore Ruya Kisacikoglu said. “I’m excited to see my family and go swimming at my summer house.”
When asked which month their activities would peak, 51.9% of students answered July. This could be linked to availability within programs, personal scheduling conflicts or just the fact that July is the perfect middle section within summer break.
McLean’s competitive academic environment may help explain the number of students leaning toward academic goals this summer. While it is less than 50%, having nearly half of McLean students more dedicated to academic pursuits than relaxation is worth noting. According to U.S. News, McLean High School is ranked fifth for best high schools in Virginia, due to its “performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college.” McLean High School’s strong academic performance contributes to a culture of early college preparation, which lends to the close 50/50 margin of summer plans.
Whether students are focused on rest or rigor, across the school they are already mapping out how to spend their summer days. The split between academic and leisure plans reflects the diversity of McLean’s student body, and the variety of approaches they’re taking to make the most of their time off.
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