Summer Programs

Summer Opportunities for High School Students

There are loads of great summer opportunities for motivated high school students! Attending a summer program can challenge you academically, help you build confidence, bring you new friends, and prepare you for college.

• If you are interested in participating in a program next summer, check out the updated list of summer opportunities for 2010. This list of summer programs only includes a small number of those that are available across the United States. Most of these programs are within Massachusetts or at least New England, and many are within the Boston area. Summer programs can be expensive, so only those that offer financial aid have been included here.
• If you are a current sophomore, you should also find out more about Summer Search. (See the bottom of this page for more info on Summer Search).
• Or, you can explore other options on your own. As you search, be sure to check that the program is still active (sometimes links are old or outdated).

As you look more closely at any program, you should consider the following:

• Your interests: Programs may be designed for students who are planning a career in engineering or science. Others involve art or writing. Think about what interests you.
• Location: Do you want to be close to home? Would you be happy in a residential program (where you live on campus with other students)? Most financial aid does not include travel expenses, so you need to keep that in mind also.
• Timing: Check the dates to make sure that the program will not conflict with family travel plans or other responsibilities you have.
• Eligibility: Most programs are limited to certain grade levels or ages; that information is listed below. However, you need to check the website for more specific requirements. For example, some programs are only for minority students or for students who have a certain GPA (grade-point average). Some may require students to be citizens or legal residents. Make certain you are eligible before you apply.
• Application Process: Each program has specific requirements for the application. Most require at least one (and sometimes more) recommendation from teachers. Some require a short essay or personal statement. Some of the math programs have problems sets as part of their applications. Many have an application fee. Check the website carefully to find out what you need to do. Most have downloadable application materials. It is a good idea to ask someone to help you with the application.
• Deadlines: If the deadline is "rolling" it means that the program accepts applications and offers spots to students as their applications come in. If you wait until the last day of a rolling deadline, it could be too late. Please make sure you give yourself enough time to meet the deadline. Teachers need several weeks notice if they are going to write recommendations. Similarly, the guidance office needs time to put together transcripts.
• Costs and financial aid: Some of the programs are very expensive (in the thousands of dollars). But most also offer some level of financial aid, from partial scholarships to full funding. Usually there is a separate application (and often an earlier deadline) for financial aid applications. You usually need to include tax information from your parents. Again, it is a good idea to ask for help as you fill out these applications. A number of programs are volunteer internships (which are free) and some pay you to participate.

If you have any questions about summer programs, talk to one of your teachers or your guidance counselor or see Ms. Collins in room B2212. She has worked with a number of students who have attended great summer programs and she may be able to direct you toward one that is right for you.

Summer Search

What is Summer Search?
Summer Search is a foundation that gives scholarships to high school students so they can participate in summer programs all across the United States. Every year, students from Chelsea High School go on trips to Maine, Colorado, Washington, Minnesota and other places.

How can I participate?
CHS teachers and staff nominate sophomore students in the fall. These nominated students are invited to an information session and then can choose to complete the application process and participate in interviews with representatives from Summer Search.

Who should I see for more information?
You can check out the website or you can see Ms. Collins (B2212) who oversees the nomination process at Chelsea High School.