Do colleges value internships over summer programs?

Pre-College Issues Summer Programs
1

<p>Do colleges value unpaid/paid internships (such as at a local startup company or a research lab) over summer programs that cost money such as COSMOS?</p>

2

<p>In general I think it is good to do things that differentiate you from the crowd. If you can get an interesting internship that also helps you develop/grow, I would say that is better. Although COSMOS looks pretty awesome, too. :slight_smile: Whichever you do, the main thing is to get something out of whatever you choose, and use it to deepen a passion or interest that you have.</p>

3

<p>I’d go with the internship.</p>

4

<p>Yes thats what it would seem like. COSMOS is great, but it only takes an application and money. I heard that colleges like free programs that are more selective better. And internships that are selective and give you hands on professional experience.</p>

5

<p>Well, sure, AlexHarper. But those free programs are VERY difficult to get into (for example, TASP is harder to get into than any Ivy), and the selective internships are also really hard to get. It is okay to apply for a couple, but best to also pursue some more local/realistic options as well.</p>