<p>Like others have said, RSI is extremely selective, so you should definitely apply to a few other programs/internships so you have a back-up if you’re rejected. It seems like the number of applications have skyrocketed at the few well-known pre-college programs in each field (RSI, Ross mathematics, the Iowa writing program) because students want the prestige factor…but there are plenty of other worthwhile programs out there. </p>
<p>If I can make a gender assumption based on your username, dreamgirl, you could also look into science programs specifically targeting young women (some are more engineering-focused, like the Women’s Technology Program at MIT).</p>