<p>Hey everyone!
I really want to boost my resume in some way this summer since I will be applying for colleges in a few months. I was wondering if programs such as NSLC are worth it.
Thanks! :)</p>
<p>Anyone??? :)</p>
<p>Unfortunately, NSLC will not significantly, if at all, boost your resume. If it’s anything like NYLF, NYLC, etc, it’s just another pay-your-way-in program. I would suggest spending your money elsewhere, perhaps in courses at your local university. However, if you seek a more social experience, then I don’t mean to discourage you from going to NSLC. Keep in mind, though, admissions know the nature of the program. If you’re a freshman or a sophomore, you’re in luck because you’ll have time to apply to prestigious programs (in research, science, journalism, humanities, etc.) during your junior year. If you’re a junior, you can still make efficient use of your summer without the expensive and fairly commonplace NSLC. Good luck!</p>
<p>Oh I see, well thank you! Do you then believe taking a class at a local community college would be more beneficial? Although invited, I am unable to attend more prestigious programs due to scheduling conflicts.</p>
<p>Taking courses at a community college is a good idea. NSLC is not a bad thing, and will likely be a positive experience for you, but if your main motive is to “boost [your] resume” (which should never be a motive for participating in a summer program), then it won’t be worth it.</p>
<p>I am sorry if I wasn’t clear. I want to participate in a summer program for the experience and to gain new skills, however I do not want to pay a bunch of money for something that would not be worth it in the long run.</p>
<p>Well, it depends on what you consider to be “worth it in the long run”. Will NSLC be “worth it” to your personal development? Yes, absolutely. To your college application? Yes, but it will not by any means have a significant impact. So if your college application is more “worth it” that your personal experience/development, than no, it probably would not be worth the money, but if you value the experience, then go for it.</p>
<p>Courses would be a more productive investment. Do what’s most important to you, though. Maybe try to find a professor that will let you help him/her in the lab. Even if all you’re doing is data collection, it would still “look” better and show scientific interest (if that’s what you’re into). Or just get a job or volunteer a lot. Interest + Efficiency is the best combination to spend a summer.</p>