Summer break can feel like a well-deserved break—but it’s also a valuable time to invest in your future. Enter summer programs. Summer programs are more than resume builders. They help you to discover interests, gain confidence, and even get ahead on your college or career path.
In this blog, you will learn about how to decide if a summer program is right for you, how to figure out which is the best summer program for you, which summer programs are worth your time and effort, and a few programs—like RISE Global Education—that help create impactful experiences for high school and college students.
Here’s what most students ask:
Do summer programs help with college admissions?
Are they worth the time and cost?
How do I pick one that matches my goals?
Let’s break it down.
Why Do Students Join Summer Programs?
There are several fundamental reasons why students may choose to devote their summer to an academic, career, or enrichment program:
Skill-building in areas such as coding, research, debate, entrepreneurship or writing.
College preparation in the form of SAT/ACT prep, admissions and advising, and the experience of being in and around a university.
Career exploration via an internship, research project, or mentorship.
Networking opportunities with peers, professors, and professionals.
Ability to differentiate themselves on applications for both college and scholarships.
But here's the trick - not all summer programs are created equal. The real question is,
Should You Join a Summer Program?
It really depends on your goals, schedule, and motivation. Ask yourself:
Do you have a curiosity for a discipline or subject?
Do you have time to commit without burning out?
Could you use structure or mentorship this summer?
Are you trying to develop your college application profile?
If you answered "yes" to even two of these above questions, a summer program was likely a great decision.
However, if you have a lot going on, you've just spent a tough semester adjusting, or you are juggling other commitments and responsibilities, you do not have to do one. College admissions are looking for depth of experiences, not breadth of experience.
How to Choose the Right Summer Program
1. Define Goals
Before looking at options, be clear about what you hope to gain from your summer:
Do you want to get exposure to a major?
Would you like to improve your academic performance?
Are you starting a passion project or building your profile?
Are you looking to learn something just for fun?
This will help you to screen out programs that won't help you attain your goals.
2. Decide On Virtual or In-Person
Since COVID, the number of virtual options has exploded. These options are inexpensive, accessible, and often impactful - if you commit and remain disciplined!
In-person options allow for immersive learning and exposure to campus life, and travel.
Choose what appeals to your schedule, budget, and learning style.
Types of Summer Programs (With Examples)
Academic Programs
Ideal for students desiring to be ahead of the curve in subjects such as biology, AI, math, or writing.
Examples:
RISE Global Education has summer programs in AI, business, and biosciences that are research-based and skill-building.
MIT Research Science Institute (RSI)
Johns Hopkins Pre-College Programs
A lot of programs also include mentorship, research, and college-level classes.
Career Exposure Programs
These programs are focused on helping students explore career paths such as law, medicine, engineering, or business.
Examples:
NSLC (National Student Leadership Conference)
Harvard Secondary School Program
RISE’s Internship Bootcamp - a project-based program where students work with startup coaches on solving real-world problems.
Such programs can help clarify long-term interests and connect you with professionals in the field.
Preparing for College Programs
If you are applying to elite universities, these programs will help you generate application materials, prepare you for standardized tests, and educate you on what colleges expect from students.
Examples:
RISE's Ivy League Prep track: A complete program to prepare you with college essays, interview preparation, and academic mentoring.
PrepScholar's Boot Camps (SAT/ACT)
Columbia's Summer Immersion
The above programs focus on improving your academic profile and readiness for the application process.
Global & Leadership Programs
These programs will help develop a world view and build soft skills like communication, collaboration, and leadership.
Examples:
The Global Citizens Initiative
AIESEC's International Leadership Experience
RISE's Young Leaders Program: Teaches public speaking, awareness on global issues, and leadership training.
Any of these programs will be beneficial to students who are interested in Model United Nations, policy, or social entrepreneurship.
What Do Colleges Think About Summer Programs?
Here is the reality: most admissions staff understand the different types of access students have to paid or elite programs. So, rather than only caring where you went, they care about what you did and what you learned. Admissions committees have great respect for students who:
took initiative over the summer
explored their interests intellectually
built something or give something back to their community
can reflect deeply about their experiences
So whether it is a RISE, RSI, or a self-made summer project, make sure you are engaged and intentional about it.
Red Flags Things To Avoid
Be mindful of:
Overpriced programs with no defined outcomes
Programs that promise an admission or internship
Mentoring or feedback non-existent
Pre-recorded content of low quality with no interactions
Be on the lookout for reviews or student testimonials, a transparent curriculum and defined deliverables.
How Much Should You Spend?
Summer programs can range from free to ₹2,00,000+, so ask:
Does the cost align to the value I will receive?
Are there scholarships or need-based funds?
Will this actually help me achieve my goals?
Some summer programs, such as RISE Global Education's, are among the best examples of "max value" for cost (low cost compared to the $$ Ivy League camps), without quality or experience loss.
Do not chase prestige - chase purpose.
Choices Beyond Paid Programs
If you have a budget to consider, or prefer self-paced growth:
You can ...
Undertake an independent research project
Take free courses on platforms like Coursera or edX
Volunteer or intern at a local charity or start-up
Start a blog, YouTube channel, or coding project
Join open competitions or hackathons
Take online free webinars offered by NGOs like RISE Global Education
These activities can be impactful when fueled with the same passion and diligence.
Final Checklist: Picking the Right Program
Fits your goals and interests
Fits your budget, or offers financial aid
Offers mentorship, and tangible deliverables
Has been successful in the past, or has demonstrated successful alumni outcomes
Makes you feel excited, as opposed to overwhelmed
But remember: The best program is also one that grows your curiosity, your confidence, and your clarity.
Conclusion
Summer is not just a break—it’s a blank canvas. Whether you choose a structured program (like RISE Global Education), whether the program is associated with a top-tier university, or whether you do a self-initiated project, pursuant to your goals and interests, the aim is growth. The “right” summer program is embedded in your journey, and not just something you think will look good on paper.
So take it slow, ask the right questions, and do not hesitate to embark on exciting new experiences. Your summer story could just be the one that changes everything!
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE Research helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!
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