Tips to Finding the Right Summer Program

Summer is quickly approaching and we want you to make the most of your summer. Summer programs are a great way to have a productive season while increasing your chances of admission into your first-choice college. But you might be asking: what makes a good summer program? While there is no one definitive answer to this question, there are a few things to consider. Here are a few tips to help you find a good summer program for you:

Choose a summer program that aligns with your interests. While you might think that studying a new subject will look good on your resume or application, it does no good if you’re not interested in the subject. Colleges are looking for advanced yet focused students. You’re looking to excel in what you do in a summer program. If you choose something with the sole intent of impressing a school though you have no interest in the subject, then chances are you’re not going to do well which negates the whole idea of a summer program. If you’re interested in science, then find a science program. If you plan to discover the next great mathematical equation that will change how we see numbers, then find a program that will help you advance in math. This isn’t rocket science, unless you’re into that, in which case, find a space program!

Choose a summer program with a tangible output. A good summer program gives you a chance to actually do some work that you can add to your transcript. Look for programs where you will create a project. For example, if you are interested in science, look for a program in which you will create and run an experiment from which you will write a series of lab reports. Or, if you want to be a journalist, look for a program where you will dive deep into a news event where you will research the topic, interview experts, and write an in-depth report as if you were writing for a newspaper. This output can be used for college applications to show experience in the field in which you intend to study. 

Choose a summer program that offers and encourages leadership roles. While colleges are looking for students with focused studies, they are also looking for leadership experience. Strong leadership experience gives you a leg up in the admissions pool. Leadership shows motivation, dependability, problem-solving, and it shows that you are a team player. These are all qualities that will help you succeed in both a college setting as well as in post-graduate life. 

Watch out for useless college programs. There are several colleges and universities out there that offer you a chance to stay in the dorms and take a class here or there. But the truth is that these are basically extended college tours. They don’t actually do much to benefit you in any real way. They don’t offer focused studies or experience that will help you stand out when it comes time to submit your applications. And be wary of colleges that lead you to believe that a summer program at the school will increase your chances of admissions there. More often than not, these are marketing techniques that won’t really pay off. Though chances are you will pay greatly for these programs. 

Hopefully these tips will help you get started in finding the right summer program for you. If you miss the application deadlines for summer programs, don’t fret. There is still time to plan an independent project. Or, you might try to find an internship. Internships, though rare these days, are another great way to pad your resume. However, if you are going to take an internship, make sure that it will give you direct experience in your field. Colleges aren’t going to be impressed that you spent the summer sorting mail in the mailroom at NBC studios. They want to see substantive involvement in your area of interest. 

So, whatever you do next summer, make sure that it will help your college application stand out!

Ivy Link works with students at every grade level to secure meaningful summer programs, internships, and other opportunities that boost a student’s profile. If you or your student would like guidance on this, and any other aspect of the college admissions process, contact us below to lean more.