<p>Receiving a minimum SAT score (about 80th percentile of seniors as a 9th grader on any section of the SAT) and attending a program like Johns Hopkins CTY or Duke TIP, or, alternatively, spending the summer with a job or volunteering? (assuming that the student is equally interested in both)</p>
<p>It probably depends on the job. An interesting job could be much more worthwhile, and of course economically better too.</p>
<p>I would say that TIP is better.
I'll be attending my fourth and final year of TIP this summer and cannot think of a better way to spend three weeks.
I have loved every moment of my experiences there and wouldn't give it up for the entire world.
A lot of my friends feel the same way.
It may not be what "looks best" on an app, but you make AMAZING, lifelong friends and grow a lot.
Just my two cents.</p>
<p>I just want to put my word behind CTY. I attended it for five years before this summer and it has definately changed my view on life. Not only is it a great educational experience, but a social one as well. If anyone has any questions, feel free to PM me.</p>