<p>Look locally! I was also discouraged because a lot of programs I wanted to apply to were open to rising juniors/seniors back when I was a sophomore. I’m really into music and teaching so I looked and asked around locally (it was actually my friend’s mom who heard about the program at work) and found a music school in the area who were accepting teens as a summer apprentice for their summer schedule. Try contacting local organizations for whatever you’re interested in and see if they have anything available.</p>