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Introduction
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Summer programs are an opportunity to go deeper into an area you are interested in or passionate about.
College reps tell us that merely attending a summer program does not increase a student's chances of admission. It really depends on what students do with the experience that makes them a stronger candidate. If you participate in a summer program, you should plan on returning to school, and demonstrating a higher level of learning/ability/passion the following year.
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Do not sign up for a summer program just because it is at a big-name college or university. Be aware that colleges rent out space to anyone who wants to hold a program for HS students on their campus (you can find some of those programs on this list). As a general rule, these programs are a waste of time and money for students interested in competitive college admissions. "If it costs more than $4,000 for two weeks or less, doesn't include college credit, and is not a real research program, you're probably getting ripped off - search CC for any reviews/experiences that might be helpful in distinguishing these programs." -College Confidential Summer Program Thread
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Summer Advice for Each Grade
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Ninth graders: If you haven't done a summer program before, now is the time to get involved. You should also look at a structured volunteer program, a job, or any other "constructive" activity that will help you develop as a student and learner. The summer after 9th grade is also a good time to casually visit a couple of college campuses. After each visit, make a list of things you like/don't like about each campus.

Tenth graders: There are a lot of programs from which you can choose. Do not put off a structured summer activity/job/etc until next year! The summer after 10th grade is the recommended time to visit a number of college campuses. Students should make a list of things they like/don't like about each school. Over time, this will naturally create a pattern of things students most value in a college. This gives students a context for their upcoming junior year course selections, standardized testing, and foundation for college planning in the 12th grade.

Eleventh graders: The highest number of summer opportunities are available to 11th grade students. Get a job, find a summer-long volunteer opportunity or internship, apply to summer programs that will benefit you and make you grow. Start planning early. Many people start in November, if they want to attend a high-quality or competitive summer program. This is by far the most important summer for summer programs or other structured activities.
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-Advice modified from: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/summer-programs/1277483-summer-programs-start-looking-in-winter.html
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© Patrick Love
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