<p>Hi, I'm interested in a summer research program, and of course I want to get accepted to a competitive and free program, but I know that I would probably get rejected. I need an alternative other than competitive programs.
I am applyig to:
Clark Scholars Program
Young Scholars Program in California (UC Davis) or the one in Florida (which one would you recommend?)
SSTP (in University of Florida) --I'm not sure about this one.</p>
<p>and my stats are basically:
PSAT: 198 (CR610 M770 W600)
SAT1: didn't take it yet
SAT2: Math level 2 800
GPA: top5 out of 600students
ECs: okay i guess, no math/science related awards though cuz my school doesn't participate in any :(
I go to Columbia Science Honors program though</p>
<p>So, I thought that based on my stats, it's really hard to get into the summer programs I'm applying for. Is it really that impossible? I'm gonna try, but I'm not really putting any hopes on it.<br>
I need alternative plan. Should I try to contact professors around my area and try to find a research opportunity that way? or should I just apply to a less competitive summer program? Is there any research program that is less competitive?</p>
<p>2 suggestions:
1] post your question on the parents forum. there are lots of parents there whose kids have gone to summer programs, and who could make recommendations for you.
2] check out the SSP, also in Calif. It is competative, but very prestigious and I believe that they offer financial aid as well.
-I was under the strong impression that the Davis program is for Calif students only. you should make sure it is open to students from other states. Same with the Florida program. Wickipedia says that the Fla program is for Fla students
[FSU</a> Young Scholars Program - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia](<a href=“http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FSU_Young_Scholars_Program]FSU”>FSU Young Scholars Program - Wikipedia)</p>
<p>SSTP at Florida (the competitive one) is listed a one of three recommended summer programs on the MIT website.</p>
<p>Don’t underestimate the value of a job. My D did not make the cut for RSI or ONR/SEAP. On her own she walked into her school kitchen and got an offer of a full time summer job that threw her in among adults making $8 to $10/hour. </p>
<p>She learned how to suck it up and get the job done - despite 100 degree temps and hard work. She learned about the concerns and conversation patterns of adults. She learned how hard it is to earn the money that she and her friends spend so freely. She grew as a person.</p>
<p>And she can articulate the lessons learned as a unique college essay; one with more substance then “what I learn on my expensive summer program paid for by my parents” variety.</p>