<p>Recently I have applied to a number of summer programs. I am a junior and intend to major in physical sciences, namely physics and chemistry. I'd like to know about the Harvard, Cornell and Carnegie Mellon programs for summer studies. </p>
<p>My main concerns are:
-Program quality (Do actual professors teach the classes or are they grad students or interns? Will I be challenged? Is it worth my effort? Is it anywhere near the quality of the undergrad experience?)<br>
-Selectivity (Will the other students be smart? Interesting?)
-Prestige (Will this make me look any more attractive to admissions officers?</p>
<p>I<code>ve never been to the summer programs at Harvard,Cornell, and CMU, but everyone who has been there said it was a great experience. You can earn college credit and experience college life. I</code>m pretty sure the professors teach the classes, so they are of good quality. They are not THAT selective, as long as you show motivation to learn. It does not give you a great advantage in the admissions process. Basically,its a way for colleges to make money during the summer. Anyonen who has money can attend the programs, so I dont think it<code>ll give you an advantage. Of course, when theyre deciding on final admissions and let</code> s say, someone has near similar stats to yours, THEN you might have an edge , as you have shown interest to that school. It` s a great experience , its better than watching TV all day during the summer. But know that there are alot of other things you could do if you want to enhace your application-like working, volunteering, etc. Hope that helps.</p>
<p>I went to the summer program at cornell, and all courses are taught directly by professors. In most cases, you will have daily sessions with a TA in order to discuss lectures and/or answer any questions. The professors also hold office-hours a few times during the week. In terms of the class(es) you pick, you are definately treated as a college student. Additionally, the summer college staff plans a bunch of activities in order to spend your free time. </p>
<p>If you do the six week program, do well, and get a recommendation/get to know one or two professors I can guarantee you that it WILL help your admissions decision favorably. Be warned, some of the courses are extremely difficult (especially architecture), so don't get into it unless you are confident you can succeed, as a negative result (C+ or worse) can be a detriment to your application's chances.</p>
<p>I have two relatives who went to the summer program at CMU. They found it quite challenging and a rewarding experience. The classes were taught by professors. The science courses were rigorous. The students were very bright.</p>
<p>went to summer program @ CMU. had lots of homework (we'd stay at the computer cluster until just before building/sign-in curfew), but there were plenty of field trips and social opportunities. i mean, pittsburgh isn't NYC but it's a friendly small city with plenty of things to do esp. if you're a summer school student with not too much time on your hands.</p>