<p>Okay so I am a sophomore and every since like eight grade, I knew what college I want to go to: Columbia. I always try to work to the best of my ability in hopes that it will pay off in the future. Because of that mentality, I signed up for the research program this year at my high school. Tomorrow I present my yearly project and after that, I have to start working on my INTEL project. I was able to get a mentor at the Garcia Center at Stony Brook and I am lucky enough to be able to stay and dorm there for the summer for free. I see this as a great opportunity and hopefully when time comes to apply to Columbia, they will see it, too.</p>
<p>While looking at the Columbia website, I saw programs for high school students and they seem very interesting. Would it look better to apply to Columbia if you went to a summer program there? Also, what would look better: working at a lab or going to one of their programs? I would love to do both, but the Columbia programs run during the time I am supposed to be at the lab. </p>
<p>Sorry to seem so annoying. This is my first post and I just want to make the right decision.</p>