5 Tips for Applying to Summer Programs
by Sarah M.
Academic summer programs are a versatile resource for high schoolers looking to set themselves apart on their college applications. There are many different kinds of programs, and they can be effective for different goals at different times.
In general, applications for these programs will open between December and March: you should do your research early to know when you need to apply to your particular program. While the applications for summer programs are not generally very involved, it can be a good opportunity to practice your essay writing skills, and to cultivate relationships with teachers who may write your recommendations for college, as well as for these programs.
Below are 5 tips to consider when deciding whether to apply to a summer program.
1. Some summer programs are open to all, and some are selective. It will always look better on an application to go for selective programs. That said, open enrollment summer programs can still be a great option early on in high school (the first two summers), or if the subject offered is a course not available through school.
2. Some summer programs are entirely course-based, others emphasize independent research, and some are a combination.
Consider the kind of field you want to go into, and what sort of experience will be most useful for you: do you want to learn material not available to you in your regular school? Do you want more time in a lab? Perhaps you feel ready to embark on a self-directed research project?
Make sure you pick a summer program that will challenge you in the most productive ways based on your interests and goals. In general, colleges will be more impressed with college-level academics and/or independent research guided by university faculty.
3. Though it is not strictly necessary to do multiple summer programs (or any!), it may be worthwhile to consider a multi-summer approach. For example, many of the most competitive and prestigious summer programs are available only to rising juniors or seniors, and they can be difficult to get into without experience from another less challenging summer program earlier on.
4. There are many different kinds of experience for summer programs. Some are entirely online. Some are residential, giving you the opportunity to live in dorms and experience a campus setting intensively. Others offer a commuter option, with classes on campus but without the residential aspect.
The price points for these various options can range widely, as can the opportunities for financial aid. Usually, if you will be seeking any financial assistance, it is important to apply as early as possible.
5. You may be tempted to apply to summer programs at colleges that you will want to apply to also. This can be a good idea, because it gives you the opportunity to become really familiar with a particular campus, and even with some faculty members.
You can write about these experiences in your application essays, and potentially get recommendations from the professors you work with.
That said, keep in mind that participating in a summer program at a particular school does not typically give you any quantitative advantage when it comes to regular college admissions at that school.
