I’m a junior in high school and I’m starting to think about college. For the past two summers, and this summer as well, I’ve gone to a seven week wilderness canoeing camp up in Canada.
My question is, compared to other students who attend illustrious summer programs, do research internships, or hold a summer job, how do colleges view summer camp? Does it imply that I’m not “as good” as those who do something else?
<p>Don't do what colleges want to see you do. Just have fun and spend your summers the way you want to, although I wouldn't recommend doing nothing at all. You don't have to go to RSI or SHARPS to go to a good school (even a top one), but they help. Wasting a summer doing something you really don't want to do (just for a college) is not worth it.</p>
<p>In all liklihood, a seventeen year old will think very differently in five years. Be careful about what advice you heed. If you can get into an RSI type program, go for it. You'll enjoy it more than you think. It is important to stretch yourself, not just for colleges although it is certainly something the good ones are looking for. To goof off summers just won't do you much good, and it should be doable to find something you'll enjoy if you have real passions.</p>