<p>I'm planning on applying to three-ish summer programs this summer as a junior. I've already been nominated to represent my school for the NJ Governors School in Science. I'd say my test scores are pretty good and my ecs are average but decent. In the very, very low chance that I get into the three programs that I'm considering of applying to (SSP, Simons Research, and Governors School), which one should I plan on attending? Advice would be much appreciated. Here are my thoughts:</p>
<p>Governors School
Definitely an amazing experience with a group of talented students. My only problem with this is that its short: just three weeks. Also, its more of a social experience in that you won't get anything tangible out of the program (i.e. research worthy of being submitted). </p>
<p>SSP
Once again, an incredible experience. It's the perfect length, around 5 weeks. But once again, it would be really hard to get research out of this (though it has been done in the past) and this is more of a social experience based on my impressions. </p>
<p>Simons Research
This program is more or less hardcore research. Many of the acceptants have gone to win awards at major science competitons. The social aspect isn't as great as the other two programs. Since this is more of a regional program, I have a feeling that its not as well known as some other selective programs (i.e. SSP and Governors school). I know that that shouldn't be reason for not attending, but what do you guys think? Is Simons on par or better than SSP and Governors school in terms of prestige/selectivity?</p>
<p>Definitely Simons. It will help you win those top-notch competitions and get a great rec in the process. But really, if you can get into any one of those, it’s a great accomplishment.</p>
<p>thanks for the response. i know that simons has produced many intel and siemens winners, but most of those have been from the ny area correct? most of the projects have been conducting during the academic year at Stony Brook, supplemented by 6 weeks over the summer. i’m not sure if i would have a project worthy of submission into selective competitions in 6 weeks.</p>
<p>Simons kids out of NY do well too. 7 weeks is enough–only the kids who live right by Stony Brook (Ward Melville) tend to go during the year. To be more efficient, it’s a good idea to define a project (or at least a project area) and do background research before the start of the program, and then handle all paper writing for after the end of the program (you can still collaborate with your mentor through email or skype.)</p>
<p>Of course, SSP might be cooler. Science fairs aren’t everything.</p>
<p>ok, so if I do have the chance of attending simons, I basically have to maximize my time during the 7 or so weeks to come out with something worthy of publication. </p>
<p>also, as a side note. i feel as if SSP has that “wow” factor when it comes to college apps. I mean simons is a great program and all but it is largely regional so I don’t know how reviewers would see it. NJGSS doesn’t have that high of a reputation either as far as I’ve heard.</p>
<p>No you’re wrong. Simons is definitely better than SSP and Governor’s School. If you want to go into science and engineering, having research experience gives you a very good boost.</p>
<p>It’s YOUR life. You can make your OWN decisions, without having to bump a thread four or five times.</p>
<p>Pick what you ENJOY, not what will win you awards. Personally, I would go with the governor’s school–it’s more social, fun, etc. from my experience. But I’m not a research fan, so meh.</p>