This is a public service announcement: This is a fake photo caption for placement only.

While summertime and learning may seem to go together about as well as your mom picking out your clothes or music, there are, in fact, cool ways to expand your mind this summer without sitting in a classroom. For instance:

1. Podcasts. Free online tutorials offer instruction in foreign languages, grammar, vocabulary building, graphic design – really, almost thing you’d care to know more about, from introductory levels on. All you need is a computer. Or download to your MP3 player for ideas to go! Go to Podcasts, click “Education.”
   
2. Internships. Get an introduction to possible careers via an internship. These opportunities get you in the door of businesses to determine if what you think is your ideal career actually is. Find internships near you 
   
3. Community Programming. Check your local library, schools and museums for inexpensive recreational activities such as art classes and summer camps.
   
4. Governor Schools. Many states offer these schools that are free or low-tuition summer programs for talented youths of high school age. Offerings vary by program and run in length from one to six weeks. See if your state has a Governor School.
   
5. Upward Bound. For high school students from low-income families or whose parents don’t have a bachelor's degree, this program includes instruction in reading, writing, study skills and other subjects necessary for success after high school. Also available are academic, financial or personal counseling; mentoring programs; and assistance in completing college and financial aid applications. Learn more