<p>Summer adventures must be done because the student genuinely wants to, not so they can get into HYPSM... but this doesn't mean they are bad experiences when done for the right reasons. This summer (I'm a hs junior) I am attending a 6-week long summer program at Carnegie Mellon. Why? If I didn't go, I would most likely teach myself Java instead of swimming or riding horses; an instuctor/group of students can help smooth the learning curve. Why do I want to know Java? It's fun!</p>
<p>While paying thousands of dollars to volunteer in a desolate location does seem ironic, not all programs are expensive. The summer program I am attending provides free room/board/tuition - all you have to do is get there... Some other programs I looked at offer financial aid.</p>