“Summer melt” refers to the phenomenon describing recently graduated high-school students or college students who fully intend to enroll in college but ultimately didn’t enroll in the fall term for various reasons. In efforts to combat the noticed trends of students falling off after initially being ready to start college, DSF College Advisors continue working with students after graduating high school to ensure all the necessary resources are available and steps are complete to start college in the fall. These steps range from completing different deadlines, enrolling in classes, finding housing, connecting with advisors, and finding activities and offices to help students create a community within their campus. Historically students with more significant equity gaps are more heavily impacted by summer melt. DSF aims to help close equity gaps and ensure students register for college, attend their first day of school in the fall, persist, and ultimately graduate.
Maintaining motivation to continue their education can be difficult, but with the right tools and support, students will be able to maximize their summer for success. DSF College Advisors share these tips with students to help beat summer melt before it begins!
- Turn on email notifications and check regularly: Colleges will likely be sending a plethora of emails throughout the summer. Receiving these emails keeps students engaged in their educational goals and ensures awareness of important deadlines. Immediately add these dates to a physical or digital calendar to plan effectively. This is a great time to begin organizing a physical or digital space to make room for new information in the Fall.
- Join the new online community: Stay connected and motivated by tuning into the new school’s social media channels, like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. By staying active in the students’ online community, they will learn more about campus resources and events. Be sure to stay connected with DSF’s Instagram account @denverscholarshipfoundation for more motivation and college success stories. Pro Tip: Students can find one person who consistently interacts with the school’s Instagram account and follow them.
- Connect with financial aid offices: Financial obstacles can be overwhelming and unsettling. Connect with the school’s scholarship/financial aid office to access invaluable knowledge and databases with a scholarship advisor. Students can use this email template to make their first connection! “Dear [School’s Financial Aid Office], I hope this email finds you well. I am a [year] student majoring in [Your Major] at [Your College/University], and I am seeking your expertise in finding scholarships. As I navigate the financial challenges of college, I am determined to explore every opportunity to alleviate the burden. I admire your knowledge and experience in the field, and I believe your guidance could significantly enhance my scholarship search efforts. I kindly request a brief meeting to discuss my scholarship search in more detail at your earliest convenience. I am eager to tap into your network and learn from your experiences.
Thank you for considering my request. With your support, I am confident I can secure scholarships that align with my goals. Your mentorship will contribute to my success and inspire me to help others in the future.
I am excited to hear from you soon to schedule a meeting. Thank you for your time and willingness to assist.
Warm regards,
[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]”
- Check DSF Student Portal: Students are encouraged to check their DSF Student Portal and emails to stay current on any announcements, deadlines, and news.
- Rest, unwind, and refuel: Students use the summer to find a new hobby or activity that relaxes and refuels them. This includes trying a new fitness class at their local recreation center, hiking with friends, meditating, journaling, etc. Creating goals that support their mental, physical, and social health is essential for students’ well-being. I Matter Colorado is a program connecting youth to free virtual counseling sessions, which can also help students work on their mental health!
Remember, beating summer melt requires proactive engagement and utilizing available resources. By staying connected, seeking support, and preparing mentally and academically, students can overcome summer melt and successfully transition to their first day of college.
