What if I don't get into any summer research program I applied

Pre-College Topics Summer Programs
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Hi There - i’ve (High school junior, senior in fall 2024) applied for multiple summer research programs that have high acceptance rate. If i dont get into any of the research programs that i applied for, What are the other things i can do this summer before senior year that would add merit to my profile

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I had this happen to me last year. Check out other low cost conferences, such as Global Health Leaders at JHU or something else similar. Make your own project or cold email some professors at a local college. Do something you’re passionate about, start a small business, etc. Many options.

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Get a job! Frozen yogurt. Day camp. Dog walking. Your local diner.

All great options- does not need to be a “program” to be a fantastic educational experience.

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Agree with this 100% - attended a presentation by a Columbia University admission rep - when a parent asked what is something that stands out in an application, her answer was a high school job!

She said they have seen a big decline in student’s working in HS and it is one thing that can cause them to look a bit more at the application. It shows how the student can manage their time, work with others etc… nothing fancy.

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This.

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I’m very good at what I do. I’m fast and efficient, I multi-task well and generally a good problem solver.

I credit my success on the years I spent busing tables in a Chinese restaurant from 10-12 grade.

Edit: And no my family did not own the resaturant.

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Are you the parent? Other post seems to suggest that.

I would also say that a job in high school is VERY beneficial to their development as young adults. They learn how to work/play with others. They have to be punctual, fill out job applications, learn to take directions/instructions from supervisors, and learn how to bank/deposit their earnings.

All of my kids worked summer and part time jobs in high school to save money for college and their own expenses. They all worked at the Zoo or Sea World, Java barista, etc.
My Caltech kid worked bussing tables at the Zoo. They all got into very good schools. Later, when they filled out their internship applications in college, they were asked if they’ve had ANY work experience.

It matters.

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Yes, i am the parent. Thank you for these response everybody.