So I was accepted into Columbia University’s Master Class in Fiction for the Commuter Program. Recently, I’ve been looking a little more into Columbia’s summer programs and I’ve only read bad things like how it isn’t rigorous or it’s just a scheme for universities to get money out of rich people. I was of the belief that I could get a strong summer education out of it but now I am very confused. Is all of the bad talk about CU’s summer programs true? Was it a waste to apply to this program?
Many many colleges have summer programs. Not just Columbia. Summer courses are a big money maker for the colleges. Since the dorms are empty, its an easy way to get some tuition dollars.
I don’t know much about the courses in the summer program at Columbia, but I wouldn’t worry. You get out of it whatever you put into it. If you’re willing to work hard, then I wouldn’t pay much attention to what others say.
I don’t think programs like this are a waste of time. You will be getting instruction on writing, which is a skill that is useful in many careers, you will work with (according to the website) two fairly accomplished writers, you will spend time on a college campus, and you can make friends with others who have similar interests. True this is a money maker for the U and some students can’t afford it.