By Ruby Bennett     

   Looking for resume material or dying of boredom? Apply for summer programs! 

   Not only are they rewarding undertakings, but summer programs are also great ways to dive into fields of expertise, meet new people and prepare yourself for life after high school.

   Undoubtedly, these courses look great on a college application by showing capability and also allow students to learn about what interests them. Borislava Panayotova, a senior at TPA, attended Stanford’s three-week Summer Humanities Institute. “Basically … you decide on a course you want to do. I picked Ancient Rome and Its Legacies,” Borislava says. “I am a massive fan of the humanities … and I’ve always loved history and classical stuff.”

   On the other hand, these programs also help upperclassmen, among others, prepare to apply to college. Most courses have a similar application process as colleges, which makes it easier to apply to universities when the time comes. 

   Not wanting to travel out of state? There are many options right here in Arizona. Barrett Honors College, the honors school at Arizona State University, offers a summer program for those going into 8th-11th grade. This course allows students to participate in college-level work and meet new people from all over the state.

   However, despite all the academic benefits, Borislava wants to highlight that  “it’s not all studying. … You get a fair amount of free time where you just get to hang out.” At Stanford’s program students explored, and even go to the beach in addition to learning.​​

   Furthermore, in January, TPA typically holds an assembly on summer programs. Students who attended these programs then tell their experiences giving further insight into what might intrigue you. Mrs. Moffit also has information regarding the hundreds of program opportunities, including any needed specifications, so feel free to contact her. 

   Without a doubt, programs such as these leave an impact on education and experience of the real world.