Hello. I know Inposted a similar question earlier, but I now know that I got accepted to both programs and have more information. I can’t do both programs and have to decide by April 5th. Here are some pro and cons for each program. I’d love to hear your opinions and comments.
SCS Noonan Scholars
+ 6 year program (2 summer in high school and 4 years of college mentor ship)
+ 1st summer is 6 weeks at Amherst College (College Writing and Calculus, but no credit)
+ 2nd summer is 6 weeks at USC (Advanced College Writing and Computer Science, but no credit)
+ The summer academies offer help with filling out applications, resumes, test prep, and college counseling (not sure what that entails or how good it is)
+ There is also a portion of the program dedicated to touring schools (Harvard, Yale, MIT, BC, Tufts...). This is very beneficial because otherwise I would never have the opportunity to visit these schools
+ There a free laptop
+ I get a $500 stipend for the first two years and a $1000 every year of college (This can help me pay for college applications and SAT tests)
+ There is mentorship in college to help with picking classes and finding internships (I don’t really know how good or frequent this help is)
+ Pretty selective program (I read an article that stated 10% admit rate of 1,000 applicants)
- Location wise Ahmherst is pretty bland (We will see other cities though)
- The program is relatively small and has not as much publicity (mostly because it recently merged and nationalized)
- I’m scared the classes offered will be rough and dull (there is no official grades though)
- The program doesn’t rely fit my overall interests (aside from college help)
NSLI Y Korea Summer
+ 1 Summer (7weeks)
+ Program is in Seoul, South Korea at Ehwa Women’s University (Seoul is the best program location in my opinion and it has always been a dream to visit)
+ The program focuses on learning to speak Korean and taking daily Korean classes, but also not for credit (I have always wanted to learn Korean)
+ I get to live with a host family and participate in various cultural events and trips
+ The Program is sponsored by the Department of State (I want to work in politics and in the Department of State in the future)
+ Most kids get to Intermediate level Korean
+ I feel like this program will be more fun becuase it closely aligns with my interests
+ Pretty Selective Program (16% Admit Rate from around 3,000 applicants. The Program is more well known and national in my opinion)
+ This program is definetly something I could write about in a college application essay because it aligns with my interest in international politics and world cultures.
+ There is so much to explore and try in South Korea
- The program is definetly shorter (I can also apply for a 9 month gap year in South Korea next year)
- The program does not offer that many benefits
- Aside from potential essay writing material, the program doesn’t offer much help in terms of College applications
- I would not get to visit many colleges (Aside from Korean universities if I decide to apply to a foreign university)
↧