How beneficial are prestigious summer programs for college apps?

I've heard about some 'prestigious summer programs' from Tulane for high school students and I'm considering applying. I'm just wondering how much these programs really impact your college apps, especially for competitive schools? I'm a junior now, would it make a significant difference?

While prestigious summer programs can certainly play a role in enhancing your college applications, they're not a golden ticket into competitive schools. They can demonstrate your curiosity, drive, and dedication, especially if you successfully engage in a program related to your chosen field of academic interest. Colleges appreciate students who take the initiative to explore their passions and better themselves academically over the summer.

However, it's crucial to understand that summer programs alone are unlikely to make or break your application. Admission committees will likely be more impressed by your overall academic performance, test scores, and breadth and depth of extracurricular activities. So, while attending a respected summer program at Tulane could enhance your application, it'd be a supplement to an already strong application rather than an element to fix any weaknesses.

Keep in mind the financial aspect, too. Some of these programs can be quite expensive. If financial constraints are an issue, there are many other summer activities that are free or more cost-effective that could still showcase your intellectual curiosity and dedication, such as internships, research opportunities, or community service.

Finally, when choosing a summer program, follow your genuine interests rather than just enrolling because you think it'll look impressive on your applications. College admissions officers appreciate authenticity and passion, so try to find a program or opportunity aligned with your personal and academic interests.