Hey everybody! I’ve read the thread about top summer programs, but I’ve also read many articles saying that colleges only care about certain summer programs, and that the Harvard/Brown/Stanford etc ones are pointless.
Read this:
http://www.businessinsider.com/pre-college-summer-programs-are-a-waste-2014-4
So… after reading this I went out searching for things to do in the summer that would actually be interesting for me, and look impressive, while not having to shell out 6K. I really like TASP but I understand that they accept nearly nobody (5% I think it was?) and I’m still not sure how colleges would feel about that even though it’s completely free if you are accepted.
So what do you guys recommend that I do? Are there any really interesting and unique programs that would impress admissions? I honestly love to learn and/or do anything so suggest whatever you want! I’m specifically interesting in computer science, but literally anything would be helpful 
. I’m also happy going over to my local community college too because that sounds kinda exciting tbh haha.
Thanks!
Start by forgetting about how it looks and what might impress. Do something that interests you. At the end of the day, your college application will be stronger if it’s authentic. Try to be present; for someone with your abilities and the privilege of a prep school education, the future will take care of itself if your choices are your own, not the ones you think some AO will like.
I would suggest your summer reading include the book "Excellent Sheep. ".
If you already know some programming, could you learn Chipmunk and then teach some elementary aged girls or disadvantaged kids? These populations are under represented in the computer science fields.
Basically take some initiative and give back to the community. A senior center might like some help with teaching the elderly how to create a gmail account. My mom has an android phone and has no idea how utilize it.
Since you have an excellent education, can you help a college readiness organization by editing college applications or tutoring for the ACT?
@gardenstategal thanks so much! One thing that I am determined to stay is genuine. I’m not gonna be wrting college essays about how much I love to work with others when in reality I seriously struggle with it :)) and thanks for the reading recommendation! I am so excited to have enough free time to leisure-read this summer. I think it’s sad that most kids don’t have enough time in the school year…
@“Snowball City” Thank you! I really like the idea of teaching kids, and I am so accustomed to teaching my parents how to use their phones/computers that I could easily transition to the (more) elderly. Thank you for everything!
It is good that you recognize the need to stay genuine. Figure some things that you enjoy and take it a step further. Create some project for yourself that lets your curiosity run. For example - Photography your city, make a walking tour with historical notes on the stops, and provide it to the local city hall or historical society.
Nico, I know you read all of my posts, so I know that what I tell you will not be a surprise. Do what interests you. Do nothing based upon what colleges might think. The skills you learn over the summer and how you translate that into your essay will do more for you. A college will not care if you spent the summer at TASP or flipping pancakes at Denny’s. Just don’t spend the whole summer on the couch with an Xbox.
He’s in 8th grade.