5 Free Summer Activities to Explore Majors in Social Sciences and History

Summer offers a fantastic opportunity for high school students to explore their interests in social sciences and history and gain valuable experiences without the need to spend money. By engaging in free activities related to these fields, students can gain a better understanding of what majors in social sciences and history entail and determine if they align with their passions and career aspirations. These hands-on experiences not only provide valuable insights but also help students stand out in the competitive college admissions process. The best part is that these activities are accessible to all students, regardless of their financial situation.

Here are five free summer activities that can help high school students learn more about majoring in social sciences and history:


1. Conduct oral history interviews with family members, neighbors, or community leaders. Learn about their experiences, perspectives, and the historical events they have witnessed. Develop interview questions, record the conversations, and create a digital archive or written narrative to share their stories.


2. Participate in free online courses or webinars related to social sciences and history, such as introduction to psychology, world history, or political science. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and OpenLearn offer a wide range of free courses taught by renowned professors from top universities worldwide.


3. Engage in a research project on a topic that interests you, such as a specific historical event, social issue, or cultural phenomenon. Utilize free online resources, such as academic journals, digital archives, and government databases, to gather information and analyze your findings. Create a research paper, presentation, or blog post to showcase your work.


4. Volunteer for a local historical society, museum, or community organization focused on social issues. Assist with archival work, exhibit curation, or community outreach programs. This experience will provide hands-on exposure to the field, help develop valuable skills, and demonstrate a commitment to preserving history and promoting social change.


5. Join or create a virtual book club focused on social sciences and history. Read and discuss books, articles, and primary sources related to topics such as civil rights, global politics, or anthropology. Engage in thoughtful discussions with your peers, share insights, and explore diverse perspectives on historical events and social issues.


To make the most of these summer activities, students should set clear goals, create a schedule, and seek guidance from mentors or peers. By immersing themselves in the world of social sciences and history through hands-on experiences and self-directed learning, students can gain valuable skills, build their resume, and make informed decisions about their future college and career plans. With dedication and initiative, these free summer activities can be the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in the social sciences and history.


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