<p>I was wondering what was better for chances going to a prestigious summer program (RSI, NASA SHARP, SSP, TASP, etc) or doing something completely unique over the summer?</p>
<p>In my case I am applying to SSP and a couple other summer program, but I also have the opportunity to go to Africa for about a month to help out with OLPC (One Laptop Per Child) issues. In my opinion, if it all works out, I will go to Africa over any other opportunity because of my interest in the OLPC organization and the work I can do there. Still, I was just wondering what you think would look better?</p>