How important is a summer program -- worth the cost???

Pre-College Issues Summer Programs
1

<p>Hi, all. </p>

<p>I applied and was accepted to a few summer programs (I.e. Duke TIP), but they were cost-prohibitive. I'm freshman currently, so I thought it'd be okay to take the summer and volunteer (missions trip, Church camp, hospital), take a few Coursera classes (I always pay the $49 for the certificate), and... Uh... Relax. I also wanted to devote some time to studying for the SAT since PSATs are in October. Finally, I am starting a photography biz and taking my first college tour (while visiting family). </p>

<p>Basically: 1) I am freaking out a little that I can't go... Should my parents have sucked it up and paid for me to go to a summer program? 2) For future summers, any good, affordable programs? 3) what can I do to make my planned summer activities look coherent and/or any other ideas for what I can do? </p>

<p>I know it is still early in the admissions process, so hopefully Ieven if this was a misstep, It'll all be okay -- right???</p>

<p>Thanks, guys! </p>

2

<p>It is fine to do something besides a paid summer program. Regarding studying for the PSAT, no point – the PSAT in 10th grade does not count for National Merit, you will just be taking it again in 11th grade. I think you plan is perfectly fine for the summer. In future summers, you could either consider a summer program, or find some way to go more in-depth in some area you are interested in (volunteer and take on more responsibility, take more classes in an area of interest, etc). You do NOT have to go to an expensive summer program for college admissions purposes. But do try to be productive and dig in deeply somehow to things you are interested in.</p>

3

<p>Thanks! Great advice and good to hear. </p>