Student summer travel: What are some unique opportunities?

Hi everyone! I'm a high school junior looking for some unique and enriching student summer travel opportunities. Are there any specific programs or types of trips you'd recommend for someone who wants to explore new interests and potentially develop some skills that colleges will find appealing? Thanks!

Hi there! Kudos on your enthusiasm for seeking out enriching summer opportunities. There are several unique and academically focused programs that you might find interesting, and participating in such programs can definitely boost your college application by showing your dedication to personal growth and learning.

1. Language immersion programs: If you're interested in learning a new language or improving your current language skills, look for language immersion programs. For example, Middlebury Interactive Languages offers programs in locations like Spain, France, and China, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while enhancing your language proficiency.

2. Research programs: If you have a strong interest in a specific academic field, participating in a research program can help you gain hands-on experience and boost your knowledge. There are many selective research programs available, such as the Summer Science Program (SSP), Simons Summer Research Program, or the Research Science Institute (RSI) that offer hands-on research opportunities to high school students in fields like astronomy, biology, and computer science.

3. Service trips and volunteering: Engaging in community service or volunteering opportunities can help you make a positive impact, develop leadership skills, and show colleges your commitment to giving back. Students Helping Honduras and Amigos de las Americas are examples of organizations that organize service trips to Latin America for high school students, where you can contribute to community-building projects while also learning about the local culture.

4. Outdoor adventure and leadership programs: You can consider outdoor leadership programs like the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) or Outward Bound, which offer multi-week summer courses that help participants develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through challenging outdoor experiences.

5. Pre-college programs: Several colleges offer summer pre-college programs that allow you to experience college life, take classes, and earn college credits. Examples include the Harvard Summer School, Stanford Summer Session, and Yale Summer Session. These programs not only provide a glimpse of college life but also help you explore potential majors and demonstrate your intellectual curiosity.

Each of these summer programs can be a great opportunity to explore new interests, develop valuable skills, and create lasting memories. Make sure to start your research early and apply as soon as possible, as many of these programs have competitive admissions processes and limited spots available. Good luck!