<p>Over the summer, I want to initiate my own research project and just work on it for fun/learning. I applied to several summer programs and I either didn't get accepted or couldn't afford them. </p>
<p>Does it look illegitimate to put down something like "personal research" in the summer activities section of your college application? I mean, compared to people who put down TASP and whatnot. </p>
<p>I'd think that colleges wouldn't regard it too highly because they have no idea of knowing if I made it up or something,.. or is my worry unjustified? Thanks.</p>
<p>In my opinion, putting down “Personal Research” would be alright if you elaborate on it. CollegeApp has an “additional information” section; if I were in your situation, I’d write a paragraph or two there detailing your process etc.</p>
<p>If you’re doing it for learning/fun you really shouldn’t care what colleges think. But if you want to, briefly describe what you did. I would approach any professors/experts in the field, ask for their help/guidance, ad get a little more “official recognition” that way.</p>