Will taking a summer program at Cornell increase my admission chances?

<p>Hello!</p>

<p>I am currently a junior in highschool and one of my favorite schools I have seen so far is Cornell. I'm hoping to apply early decision for Cornell next year but my grades and SAT scores so far likely put me on the fence in terms of actually being admitted to the school. However, I am hoping to attend one of Cornell's science programs over the summer. So my question is: To what extent do you think taking this program at Cornell influence my chance of admission? Any input is greatly appreciated!</p>

<p>I don’t think a Cornell summer program will influence your chance of admissions that much. One of my friends did a program at Cornell last summer, had “on the fence” stats, but was outright rejected ED. Try to get into a summer program that is known for it’s difficulty level (in terms of getting in). There’s nothing wrong with going to the program at Cornell, but I’d say to save that as a later option because it won’t increase your chances by much.</p>

<p>I literally have known SOO many hopeful students who enroll in these programs under the pretense that it ‘looks good’ in terms of admissions. My cousin enrolled in an engineering program offered at UPenn, fell in love with the campus, made contact with a professor, had amazing scores and grades… and then come December got outright REJECTED. She currently is much happier at Cornell Eng. (LOL) but her experience taught me that these programs have absolutely NO WEIGHT on an application. DON’T FALL FOR THE TRICK!!</p>

<p>I used to be a Science Teaching Assistant over a few summers many years ago. Whereas I do not know the answer regarding how one might appear to an Admissions officer, I can tell you that many “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed” high school students did not fare so well in these intensive science (chemistry) courses, thereby leaving a paper trail and likely rendering any hope of matriculation almost hopeless. My strong recommendation would be AGAINST doing a summer at your beloved college of choice, because a poor outcome (which may even be anything other than A) would likely make you scratch that school off your list!</p>

<p>I think the summer programs offered by many colleges can be interesting and fun experiences, but I think they’re much more a lucrative revenue stream for the host school than an opportunity for schools to suss out potential applicants. If you find a program that sounds fun, and your parents have the money (usually thousands) to spare, go for it. But go for it with the idea that it’ll be a good experience and not with the motive to stand apart come app time.</p>