What activities can I do over the summer to strengthen my college applications?

Hey guys! I'm a sophomore and I want to use my summer break wisely to strengthen my college applications. Are there any summer programs or activities you'd recommend that would be beneficial to participate in? I'm interested in computer science and engineering. Any advice on finding opportunities or experience related to these fields would be great! Thanks in advance!

Hey there! It's great to see that you're thinking ahead and planning for your college applications. Summer is an excellent time to gain additional skills and experiences that can help strengthen your application and demonstrate your interest in computer science and engineering.

Since you're interested in these fields, I'd suggest looking into summer programs or workshops that focus on coding, software development, or engineering design. Many universities and organizations offer such programs specifically for high school students, so you'll want to research options in your area or online. Some well-known programs include MIT LaunchX, Stanford AI4ALL, and Carnegie Mellon's Summer Academy for Math and Science, though there are many others to choose from that might tailor to your specific interests and location.

In addition to formal programs, consider working on personal coding projects or joining online coding competitions like Google Code Jam or Code Wars. Participating in these activities shows initiative and passion for computer science, which is a plus on college applications.

Lastly, try to find an internship or volunteer experience related to your interests. This could include assisting with computer classes at local libraries or schools, interning at a tech company, or even working on a project for a non-profit organization. By gaining real-world experience, you'll not only learn valuable skills but also demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field.

I hope this helps! Enjoy your summer, and best of luck!