Campus view with Drumheller Fountain

Making the Most of Summer

UW class seated in a circle on a lawn outside on sunny day

When the weather is still dreary, it's time to start thinking about summer! Here are some options for making the most of the summer months, both on and off campus. 

Students working in a group at a table in a classroom

Enjoy Small Courses

“Summer Term is the best time to take required coursework,” says one recent graduate. “In my experience, taking classes during the summer often results in smaller classes and more time with faculty.”

Explore the  UW time schedule for ideas.

Hand writing words in a foreign language on black chalkboard.

Immerse Yourself in a Language

Ready to learn a new language or strengthen your skills in a language you’ve been studying? The UW has one of the nation's largest intensive foreign language summer programs. You can complete the equivalent of one year's worth of college-level foreign language study in just nine weeks!

Explore summer immersion language offerings.

Thomas Khuu working in a lab setting,

Participate in research

Whether in a lab or in the field, summer is a great time to take a deeper dive into research you've been involved with, or to take on a new project. Talk to your professors or department advisers about potential opportunities.

You may find more research opportunities in the UW’s Undergraduate Research database.

Student smiling with Eiffel Tower in the background.

Study abroad

The UW offers more than 50 summer study abroad opportunities in countries from Rome to Peru to Vietnam. Nearly all programs are taught in English.

Learn about upcoming programs and scholarship support for study abroad on the UW Study Abroad website.

Students outside of Microsoft building, with Microsoft sign behind them.

Try an Internship

Summer internships are a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a professional setting and build your resume. For opportunities in your field, talk to faculty and advisers in your department or reach out to companies that interest you.

You can also find internship resources at the UW Career & Internship Center, including workshops for finding internships, links to web resources, internship/career fairs, and more.

Front of a red kayak out on Lake Washington.

Get Outside!

With water and forests in every direction, summer is a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

UWild Adventures offers workshops and trips, from single day rock climbing adventures to multi-day bike tours. At the UW’s Waterfront Activities Center, rent outdoor gear from the UWild Gear Garage or rent a canoe or kayak to explore Lake Washington.