Internship vs job vs free summer program, which is more beneficial when applying to college?

Applying to College
1

I’m thinking of going into politics as I’m older, and there is an internship for a congresswoman in my district. I have also received job offers from fast food and retail restaurants that I applied to. Finally, I am going to do Korean STARTALK at USC, of the three, which would be more beneficial when applying to college?

(I also already have a job during school hours working in the cafeteria)

2

Colleges with competitive admissions generally want to see that you are doing something productive with your summer. It doesn’t particularly matter what that thing is, whether it’s an internship, volunteer work, a job, etc. If you or your family needs the money, I would suggest working; otherwise, do whichever of these you feel you will enjoy and benefit from the most.