<p>hi guys,
before i start: I am a sophomore, male and go to a private prep school in NYC</p>
<p>I was accepted to the Harvard SSP program and the UPenn Biomedical Research Program -- I know both aren't "impressive" on college apps, but I am recieveing decent amounts of scholarship for both. Which do you think would be more "impressive"? I also do NOT want to give the colleges the impression that I "have a lot of money," yet still want to attend either. It might be important to note that I am getting more scholarship money at Harvard, but the Penn program is very interesting ...</p>
<p>So when i say "which is more impressive" i mean which is more selective..</p>
<p>Both are awesome... go where you really want to go, you really can't go wrong with either. The prestige amounted with summer programs at institutions like UPenn and Harvard are about equivalent, so pick which you think is better and excel.</p>
<p>By the way, this statement -"I know both aren't "impressive" on college apps"- could not be more wrong.</p>
<p>Although Harvard's impressive, I would highly recommend the research program. From what I've seen, people who've done research over the summer tend to get into Stanford, Harvard, etc. but ONLY if it fits in with their passion. If you're passionate about art and have no interest in biomedical research, then don't do it.</p>
<p>You're overestimating being an URM. That is not a hook. The research is worth more than being an URM.</p>
<p>On the other hand, research does not guarantee anything. I've seen many people take selective summer courses/programs at good universities (i.e. JHU) but not get accepted there.</p>
<p>Like kyledavid said, if it fits your passion, then that will be A GOOD hook. Otherwise, just a small/normal plus factor.</p>
<p>I wouldn't go to either. It could make the adcoms jealous that they never had such opportunities. Volunteering or a job would be more meaningful.</p>