Importance of Continuous Learning & Summer Education

Jackie Clarke

"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for

it today." — Malcolm X

This quote reminds us that the time we invest in learning now shapes the future we step into

later. Malcolm X understood that education was a powerful tool—especially for African

Americans who have historically been denied full access to it. Learning is more than a task; it’s

a form of empowerment.

As you move through summer, don’t underestimate the value of staying academically active. It’s

one of the most important ways to prepare for what’s ahead—on your terms. Here’s why:

1. It Strengthens What You Already Know.

Revisiting what you’ve already learned solidifies your foundation. You don’t lose the progress

you made last school year—instead, you build on it. This is how you keep your brain sharp and

your confidence high.

2. You Start the School Year Strong.

You’ll be ready to engage in learning on day one. No more awkward or fatigued transitions.

Staying active now means skipping the struggle later. You’ll walk into class focused, energized,

and ahead of the game.

3. Practice Makes Permanent.

You’ve probably heard the phrase “practice makes perfect,” but I’ve come to prefer this version:

“Practice makes permanent.”

That means what you do consistently sticks with you. And when you don’t practice, you risk

losing those skills from your long-term memory altogether. Why spend the first month of school

relearning what you already knew? Practice now to keep what you’ve earned.

4. You Get to Choose What You Want to Learn.

This summer, learning is in your hands. No one’s forcing you to study a subject you don’t

connect with. There’s no pressure of grades or deadlines. This is your chance to learn what

you’re genuinely interested in—and grow without limits.

5. Reading is STILL Fundamental.

Reading is a priority! If you want to become a stronger writer or critical thinker, read! Books,

newspapers, journals, podcast transcripts—whatever challenges and excites your mind. The

more you study how others use language, the more powerful your voice becomes.

6. Take On a Challenge.

Use this time to review a skill or revise an old assignment. Tackle something that didn’t click the

first time around. Growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable—it comes from trying, failing,

learning, and trying again.

7. Prep for the SATs & ACTs.

Even if you’re not diving deep into course content, summer is a great time to prepare for

standardized tests. More colleges are returning to SAT/ACT requirements, so practicing now

puts you in a strong position later. Focus on reading comprehension, math basics, grammar,

and test-taking strategies that will benefit you beyond just one test.

8. Explore Summer College Courses.

High school students—check in with your school to see if you’re eligible to take college courses

over the summer. Dual enrollment or early college programs give you a real head start. Not only

are you challenging yourself, but those credits can often count toward your future degree,

saving you time and money down the road. This is the definition of preparing for your future.

9. Make Moves if You’re Already in College.

If you’re in college now, summer is a great time to lighten your fall or spring course load. Taking

a class now can open up your schedule later. You should also look into internships—even short

ones. They give you real-world experience, help you explore career paths, and make your

resume stronger.

In a world that’s constantly changing—through technology, culture, and even the job

market—the most powerful thing you can do is keep learning. It helps you stay sharp, stay

flexible, and stay ready for whatever life throws your way.

Your future self will thank you.