Enrolling in summer programs offers you the wonderful opportunity to investigate potential majors, explore current interests more deeply, expand your horizons and gain valuable experience that can help you make better choices.
These tips can help you find the right summer programs for you.
What is a Summer Program?
Flickr user Andy
Summer programs are often called Summer Learning Programs, but the name can vary between various organizations. They’re available in just about every subject out there from English to robotics and theater to sports.
When it comes to the specifics, summer programs can vary quite a bit. Some programs may require you to live in housing with fellow participants or commute, while others are entirely online. Programs can also range between a single week to 12 weeks. Cost depends on the type of program, housing required, length, and more, but there are federally funded programs, scholarships, and financial aid that can help students and families cover the expense.
Participating in Summer Learning Programs brings a wealth of benefits, including:
- Development of new skills
- Potential head start on college credits
- College-level learning
- Opportunity to explore interests and passions
- Hands-on learning
- Networking
- Can look great on a resume and college applications
- Can be used as a topic in a college essay
Tips for Finding the Right Summer Program
1. Consider your Goals and Interests
If you are considering a specific major, look for summer programs that allow you to test or enhance your interest. If you are looking to improve fundamental skills such as math, writing, or science, you should enroll in an academic program that will help you make meaningful progress. Testing the waters during the summer will give you a feel for what’s to come. If you end up discovering you didn’t like the subject, that’s fine! It’s better to learn that lesson now than after you’ve spent thousands of dollars in college pursuing it.
2. Keep your Budget in Mind
Programs range from free to thousands of dollars. You don’t want to blow your college tuition fees on a summer program so be careful not to overextend. However, there are financial aid programs and scholarships that can be put towards these opportunities, so talk to your guidance counselor or college advisor to learn more about what’s available. You should also consider reaching out to the summer program’s organizers to see if they have any financial aid options available.
3. Think About the Timeline
Summer programs vary considerably in their duration, from a few days to six or more weeks. The longer the program, the more time you have to focus on your passion, but the more expensive they’ll likely be. Short programs can be a great way to dip your toes in the water of a subject and spend less money. You might even be able to fit a few short programs into a single summer.
4. Start Your Search and Register Early
Summer programs fill up fast and many have deadlines in March. Starting your search early will give you plenty of time to research all opportunities and admission criteria and get your application ready to submit before the deadlines.
Alternatives to Summer Programs
What if you don’t get into your chosen summer program? Or what if you can’t find any organizations that offer what you’re looking for in your area? Don’t worry – there are other ways to pursue your passions and make the most of summer.
1. Get a Job
A summer job is a fantastic way to get some real life experience and earn cash. You can always put them on resumes and college applications, too. If possible, opting for a job that fits your passions is a good idea, but high school students are usually limited in job options.
2. Volunteer
Is there an organization online or in your community that is looking for volunteers? Sign up! There are plenty of volunteer opportunities that range from animal care to genealogy, and many are more than happy to work with your availability during the summer. Plus, this intuitive is great for college applications, college essays, and resumes.
3. Clubs
Communities and organizations often have clubs that the public can join. Your local game store may have an Adventure League for Dungeons & Dragons players that allows you to focus on your creative writing skills and improv, or your town might have archery lessons every Saturday to help you learn a new skill. The possibilities are really endless, and there are likely plenty of opportunities for you to get involved in a club that interests you either locally or online.
Summer programs can be a fantastic way to explore your interests, get a head start on college requirements, and learn a new skill. Each one is very different, though, so make sure to do your research into what to expect, length, and cost before applying!
Worried about affording a summer program? Some scholarships can be put towards these opportunities. Use our Scholarship Search Tool to find awards you qualify for!
