I'm a high school junior looking to take a summer college course. Any recommendations on the best courses that would look good for college applications or help me explore future majors? I'd appreciate any insights from those who have done these programs.
Choosing a summer course depends a lot on your interests and potential college major. For instance, if you're considering a STEM degree, you may want to look into courses related to physics, mathematics, chemistry, or computer science. On the other hand, if humanities or social sciences are your interests, a course in literature, psychology, economics, or a foreign language might be fitting.
Many colleges offer pre-college summer programs, including institutes like Harvard, Stanford, and Brown. These programs offer courses in numerous disciplines and often give high school students the chance to experience a taste of college life.
Another option is taking courses through platforms such as Coursera or edX. Many universities provide courses here that you can add to your college application, showing an initiative in self-guided study.
However, don't forget to choose a course that you genuinely enjoy or are curious about, not just because it might look good on a college application. Pursuing a subject you're passionate about can not only offer a more enjoyable experience but also typically leads to better performance, which in turn reflects well on your college application.
Popular courses for high school students include:
1. Computer Science: This prepares you for a rapidly advancing field and is offered at many pre-college summer programs.
2. Economics: This can be a good primer if you're considering a major in the field, offering a basis in macro and microeconomics.
3. Calculus: This can bolster your math skills and is meaningful if you're looking into a STEM-related field.
4. Creative Writing: If your interests are more tilted towards the humanities, this course can help you improve your writing skills. It's beneficial for any field, as good writing resonates within any discipline.
5. Psychology: This is another common choice that suits students interested in social science.
Remember to consider the course load: summer programs can sometimes be quite intense, so be sure not to overextend yourself.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.