COSMOS vs Group/Individual Research Summer program

Pre-College Issues Summer Programs
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<p>I'm currently a sophomore who has not done any research before but would like to get some research experience. (Individual research with a professor is unlikely because there is only a local community college; no colleges/universities.) I already applied for COSMOS but also am debating between two other more research-oriented programs, UCSB Research Mentorship and Carleton Summer Science Institute. If I got into more than one of these 3 programs, which one should I attend? The dates all overlap. (I know I should worry about this more once I'm actually accepted.. But I'd also like some feedback on these 3 programs, if anyone has attended before.)</p>

<p>At COSMOS: first choice was oceanography/statistics, second and third were chemistry; I don't think I'd do much actual research, and the classes are pretty large. Pros: it is not too expensive ($2500) and is within driving distance from my home. Also I've heard that it's pretty fun x]</p>

<p>Carleton Summer Science Institute: it's only the 3rd year so there isn't much feedback on this program (any would really be appreciated!) I don't know if it's a good quality program; students work in groups of 10-12 on one research project, with mentors. If it's a collaborative research project, would I not get as much out of it/participate less/not know my mentors as well? Is it still worth it? The price is okay ($3100).
Carleton</a> College: Carleton Summer Science Institute: The Carleton Summer Science Institute (CSSI) 2011</p>

<p>UCSB Research Mentorship: it's much more expensive ($8500) and likely more competitive to get into. My stats are decent but not in any way special. Pros: it's also nearby and there's the possibility of 1-on-1 research, or with maybe up to 3 other people on a project; so I might do some more actual research and get to know my mentor better.</p>

<p>Thank you very much in advance.</p>

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<p>I would apply to all three if you haven’t already to keep your options open. I haven’t heard of Carleton, so I can’t say anything about that. Between COSMOS and UCSB, I would recommend COSMOS because of cost. I honestly don’t think the benefits of the UCSB research program is worth $6000. In fact, the best research programs are usually free or internships where they give you stipends. Unfortunately, you probably can’t do most of them since you’re only a sophomore. But there’s no use worrying about it now…wait for acceptance/rejections and decide then.</p>

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<p>There is a thread about Carleton SSI
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/summer-programs/896289-carelton-college-summer-science-institute.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/summer-programs/896289-carelton-college-summer-science-institute.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

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<p>I haven’t applied to Carleton or UCSB yet.</p>

<p>My parents are reluctant to let me go to Carleton because they haven’t heard of it either; and it’s a liberal arts college so they’re doubting how good Carleton’s science program is. Quote, “They’re probably just trying to get more money!” And it’s going to be $1000 more for round-trip plane tickets to Minnesota. :expressionless: so $4000 total…</p>

<p>I agree, UCSB’s program is pretty expensive! The research part sounds awesome, but cost is one of the main factors here…</p>