Choosing the "Right" Summer Program
As students begin thinking about summer plans, many families ask the same question: Should my student participate in a summer program — and if so, which one? Summer opportunities can be a meaningful way for high school students to explore interests, build skills, and gain confidence, but not all programs serve the same purpose. The key is choosing options that align with a student’s goals, personality, and stage in high school.
Why Summer Programs Matter
Summer programs can provide students with structured opportunities to:
Explore academic interests in greater depth
Experience college-level coursework
Develop independence and time-management skills
Engage with peers who share similar passions
Try something new without long-term commitment
When thoughtfully chosen, summer experiences can help students better understand what excites them; an insight that’s valuable both personally and academically.
Types of Summer Programs to Consider
Not all summer programs are created equal, and that’s a good thing. Here are some common categories families may encounter:
Academic Enrichment Programs
These programs allow students to dive into a specific subject such as STEM, humanities, business, creative writing, or the arts. Some are hosted on college campuses, offering a taste of college life, while others are virtual or community-based.
Pre-College Programs
Often run by colleges and universities, pre-college programs introduce students to campus learning environments. Some are selective and competitive, while others are open enrollment. Both can be valuable depending on the student’s goals.
Research Programs
Research-based programs allow participants to work closely with faculty or mentors. These are typically more competitive and can be especially beneficial for students with strong academic interests in science, engineering, or social research.
Experiential & Career Exploration Programs
Internships, service-learning programs, and career-focused camps help students explore potential career paths while building real-world skills.
Creative & Personal Growth Programs
Writing workshops, theater intensives, music programs, and leadership camps allow students to grow creatively and personally while pursuing passions they genuinely enjoy.
What Colleges Really Think
Colleges are less interested in where a student spent the summer and more interested in how they spent it. A meaningful summer experience shows:
Initiative
Curiosity
Commitment
Willingness to explore interests
A student who works a job, volunteers, pursues a passion project, or attends a local program can demonstrate just as much growth as one attending a well-known summer institute.
How Families Can Choose Wisely
When evaluating summer options, consider asking:
Does this program genuinely interest the student?
Is it appropriate for their age and academic readiness?
What skills or insights will they gain?
Is the program selective or open enrollment—and does that matter for this student?
Does it fit realistically into the family’s summer schedule and budget?
Avoid choosing a program solely because it “looks good for college.” Authentic engagement always matters more than prestige.
At the end of the day, summer is an opportunity—not a checklist. Whether a student attends a formal program, works a job, volunteers, or explores a personal interest, the most valuable experiences are those that promote growth, reflection, and self-discovery. Thoughtful summer planning can help students return to school more confident, motivated, and prepared for what comes next.
