What to Do This Summer to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Into TJHSST

If you're planning to apply to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), summer isn't just for relaxing—it's a strategic window to strengthen your application and stand out in one of the nation’s most competitive STEM admissions processes.

Here’s how to use your summer intentionally to build skills, explore your interests, and position yourself as a top-tier TJHSST candidate.

1. Strengthen Your Academic Foundation

Take a Summer Math Course or Acceleration Class

Math is the backbone of the TJHSST application. You’ll be in a stronger position if you’ve taken Algebra I by 7th or 8th grade—and Geometry if possible.

Suggestions:

• Enroll in an accredited online course (AoPS, CTY, or local county virtual programs).

• Hire a tutor or join a local math enrichment program.

• Self-study with structured textbooks or Khan Academy + solve past AMC 8 problems.

Brush Up on Science Fundamentals for TJHSST

TJ isn’t just about grades—it’s about how you engage with science.

Try:

• Science fair-style mini projects.

• Watching CrashCourse or Kurzgesagt videos and summarizing them in a journal.

• Creating a simple physics or biology blog/video series.

2. Deepen Your STEM Engagement

Join a Summer STEM Camp or Program

Admissions officers want to see that you go beyond the classroom.

Look for:

• Engineering, robotics, coding, or science exploration camps.

• Local library STEM clubs or science museum events.

• Virtual camps hosted by universities (MIT’s Scratch camp, Columbia’s robotics bootcamps, etc.).

Work on a Passion Project

Personal projects show initiative, curiosity, and problem-solving—exactly what TJ is looking for.

Ideas:

• Build a website or app.

• Design a home lab experiment (e.g., testing plant growth with different water types).

• Create a science-themed podcast or YouTube channel.

• Write a short research article or blog post about a STEM topic that fascinates you.

3. Practice the Application Components

Draft Your Student Portrait Sheet (SPS) Answers

The SPS is your chance to reflect, show growth, and stand out as a thinker—not just a résumé.

Over the summer:

• Practice writing responses to past SPS-style prompts.

• Reflect on what experiences shaped your interest in STEM.

• Ask: How do I approach problems? How do I learn from failure?

Sharpen Your Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) Skills

You’ll need to explain how you solve unfamiliar problems clearly and logically.

Try this:

• Work through logic puzzles or brainteasers, and write down your process.

• Practice structured writing: “First, I… Then, I… Therefore…”

• Time yourself writing PSE-style responses in under 25 minutes.

4. Demonstrate Leadership and Initiative

Even if you’re not leading a club yet, you can still demonstrate initiative.

Ideas:

• Start a neighborhood STEM club or tutoring group.

• Volunteer to teach younger kids a science topic.

• Host a “STEM Night” at your local library or community center.

These experiences will give you great material for the SPS and help you grow as a confident problem-solver.

5. Build a Reflection Journal

Every week this summer, reflect on:

• What you learned in STEM.

• What challenged you and how you grew from it.

• How you explored your interests in a meaningful way.

This practice makes writing your SPS and essays easier—and way more authentic.

Final Thoughts

The students who stand out in the TJHSST admissions process aren’t just “perfect on paper”—they’re curious, creative, resilient, and deeply engaged in learning. Summer gives you the space to become that kind of applicant.

Focus on depth, not just checkboxes. Explore boldly. Reflect often. And remember: your story is just as important as your scores.