Clark Scholars vs. TASP

Pre-College Issues Summer Programs
1

Hello everyone,

I would really appreciate any advice or thoughts you may have! I am having difficulty choosing between these two programs, and I must decide by today!

I am majoring in Neuroscience/Creative Writing, hopefully at a top school with lots of learning opportunities (I think I can be happy anywhere, honestly). (I also have the usual list of AP classes, decent test scores, and fun extracurriculars, like STEM Club, Academic Club, NHS, Scouts, service hours, etc.) For college applications, which one would be “better” in regards to the overall portrait of me?

Clark Scholars: 7 weeks, Texas Tech University, independent science research, stipend of $750 with free housing/food, group of 12 people (one building), potential to submit to competitions, only pay for own transportation. (Key points: independent; ties into my planned major, hands-on experience; close bonds b/c 12 people; networking; but how do people regard this on CC?)

TASP: 6 weeks, UMichigan (for mine), humanities with seminars/discussions/readings, possible stipends for transportation (will apply), free housing/food, budget for other activities, group of 14-16 people (32 in one building due to two groups), learning/speaking experience, possibly don’t have to pay anything. (Key points: I need to work on my speaking/interpersonal skills, haha; strong bonds among fellow people; networking; also, everyone seems so excited about this program on CC!)

Thank you so much, I have fallen in love with both programs and I have to choose (and free open a space for someone, haha)! Is there a way to “rank” these programs?

2

Both are incredibly prestigious, and I don’t see how you could go wrong with either one. I assume the only reason you don’t see as much about Clark on CC is because it’s a far smaller program & less people go to it so there are fewer people to submit glowing testimonials of your time there. Honestly, both will serve you just as well in college apps. Do whichever one you feel more comfortable with. Do you want to be with more people or less people? Participate in guided discussions or complete your own research?

3

@PotatoStorm Looking at your background and intended major, I would advise you to go for Clark. TASP does have a great reputation, but it doesn’t provide you with the research opportunities that Clark provides you with.

4

Thank you for all your advice! :slight_smile: I decided to choose what captured my attention for months on end – TASP. At this stage of my life, I believe it is the best fit for me personality-wise, and it seems like the intense atmosphere and the awesome/quirky community are definite draws. (Clark is still great, though!)