<p>Thanks for not being defensive (like sooooo many people on this site lol). As far as research goes, that’s great! But research alone will still not guarantee acceptance to these top schools. I’m sure you know that. Just try to do it as thoroughly as you can, and maybe think about entering intel/siemens?</p>
<p>Hey, if I do research, I’ll be doing it for the purpose of the research; looking good on an application is just an extra boost.</p>
<p>I remember getting a letter in the mail about the Siemens Competition, and I thought it was kind of cool, but I sort of forgot about it because it was near the end of the school year and and taking APEH online takes up A LOT of free time. </p>
<p>The competition looks like a lot of fun, but I’m just not sure if I’m going to have the time. I’m already taking 18 credit hours at the university. I’m not even sure if I’d be eligible since I’m technically a college student.</p>
<p>Edit: I forgot to say that I’m looking at SSP for next summer. It looks really fun.</p>
<p>Hey wait - I did ssp this summer and it was awesome!!! If you want to learn more feel free to ask!!! (not sure if you knew that or it was just a coincidence that you mentioned it)</p>
<p>@OP – Great to hear that you are going for the education. All the schools you mention are great for that then. Add UC Santa Barbara, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, the University of Chicago, Cornell and UC San Diego to your list as back ups!</p>
<p>If it is Physics, the UC’s will be great for your future. For out of state folks cost is an issue though. What is your budget?</p>
<p>@ hpyscm: Lol, really? I didn’t know. I like astronomy (and astrophysics is probably my favorite area of physics), so it looks great! I e-mailed the program director of SSP to make sure I’m still eligible even with college classes, and he said yes! Very likely applying for next summer.</p>
<p>@ OsakaDad: Not really sure yet on budget, honestly. My dad told me though “if you get it, don’t worry about the money,” but I’m not sure how serious he is. And I have been looking at UChicago, too.</p>
<p>Edit: Forgot to ask: how are physics and astronomy at Johns Hopkins?</p>
<p>If you want any info about ssp (from both an applicant and a camper’s perspective) just message me!</p>
<p>@ OsakaDad: I checked my email, and funnily enough I had one from UChicago.</p>