Hey guys, I just came across this program at Johns Hopkins called Engineering Innovation. It sounds really cool, but I was wondering if anyone has first-hand experience or good knowledge about it. What are its benefits and challenges, and does it really add value? Appreciate any info you could provide.
I'm familiar with Johns Hopkins' Engineering Innovation program and can provide some insights! It's an intense summer program that offers an excellent opportunity for high school students to explore engineering disciplines and gain hands-on experience. The program follows a curriculum modeled on the introductory engineering course offered to their freshmen, so it can give you a glimpse of what engineering study is really like.
Benefits: You get a chance for practical application of math and science principles through lab work, field trips, and lectures. You'll also receive a mix of individual and group assignments, which can help hone your teamwork skills - a key aspect in real-world engineering. If you earn an A or B grade in the course, it can translate to college credit which might come in handy later.
Challenges: The coursework can be pretty rigorous, with plenty of lab reports, quizzes, tests, and a particular emphasis on problem-solving. It might feel demanding because it includes a condensed course of study that usually spans a semester, but the hard work genuinely pays off in terms of the skills and knowledge you gain by the end.
Keep in mind that while quality summer programs can certainly enhance your learning and showcase your commitment to a particular field, they alone won't make a significant difference on your college application. They should be part of a larger, well rounded academic and extracurricular profile. To stand out, consider how the experience could foster passion for engineering that you could further demonstrate, perhaps through an independent project or research, a club leadership role, or even in your application essays.
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