Making the Most of Summer Programs

Hey, guys! It’s Eric at Solution Prep. Today we’re talking about summer programs at colleges for high school students.

These can be a great opportunity for you to learn more about topics you’re passionate about, or to look more into a college you’re considering applying to when that time comes.

They might be run by the actual colleges; so staffed by real professors and grad students, or by independent companies that just rented out the space at that college.

But your experiences there could be great fodder for college application essays down the line. Like, “Why This Major” essay or — if you apply to that college — “Why This College” essay. That demonstrates your interest, and talks about the professors you worked shoulder-to-shoulder with, and the lab you got to explore that you can’t wait to spend the next four years in. All of that is good stuff.

Some of these summer programs are competitive, and they open their applications in December, January, or February. Whereas others just let anybody go who wants and is willing to pay.

And there is a price difference. There are day programs, where you go for the day and go home at night that typically run about $1000 to $2500. And then there are stayover programs where they also let you live in the dorms and they feed you; that can cost $3000 to $5500. If these are out of your budget, there are other options. Like taking a class over the summer at your local county college.

All of this stuff shows colleges your intellectual curiosity, that you’re on an independent study plan. All of which they love to see from their applicants, and can increase your chance of admission when you apply.

So look into the options, decide what’s best for you, and if you have questions call us at 732-556-8220. We are here to help.