I'm a junior in highschool and I usually have problems finding things to do during the summer. Last summer and this current one, I haven't really done anything other than go on vacations and take test prep. From using this site, I realized that the admissions process is much more about extracurricular than tests. So, I'm wondering....what can I do to make the most out of my summer, and what should be some of my top priorities? I have a real passion for video production and design, are there any good programs for them?

You can go volunteer, this always looks good on your college application. You can get a job, also looks good on college applications and future Resumes. However, since you do like video production and design, you can take the free time you have and spend it building a portfolio for a college that you are interested in which administer those courses.

Sorry for being a creepster, but it seems you're still relatively young so many production companies may not accept you yet, even as an unpaid intern. I'd totally go with what squidward suggested and volunteer. Try this out: http://www.rooftopfilms.com/jobs.html. It looks really cool and is film-related. If you ask to be a show volunteer, you'll get to see awesome films too.

yeah i have the same problem, but i find it helpful to go to nyc.gov, there's always some stuff there for all ages living in ny. and it is generally difficult to find something to do during the summer unless you're rich and can pay for pre-college programs. there's also tons of free video production and design organizations out there, you just have to find them. can't sit around and do nothing. research!

Susan, many pre-college programs offer financial aid. I went to NYU pre-college as a junior and was given a full tuition for the summer. Many schools, museums, and organizations also offer free (or heavily discounted) summer courses. I've been to the Art Director's Workshop and Cooper Union, both of which were free. Just look around.

but don't you need to have really great grades for that? can someone with, let's say a 3.0 gpa, get a full tuition to pre-college programs?

Not necessarily. When I did NYU's pre-college program, I know they did a variety of need-based and merit-based scholarships. Keep in mind that they want you as much as you want them. As a pre-college student, they're also trying to advertise to you to go to their school in the future. Thus, if you ask nicely (e.g.: call the financial aid office) and ask for aid, chances are there will be options.

ah, thanks! so i have one last question: if colleges see you've taken courses in their pre-college programs, would you have a higher chance of getting accepted into that particular college

I can't answer that question for certain, but it would be interesting to find out the truth behind it! I highly doubt any admissions officer would ever give an honest reply to that, though.

In my opinion though, I think it helps. Logically, it shows that you have an early interest and interest is always desirable in a candidate. Many schools even admit to tracking how often students contact them via e-mail, phone, on-campus visits, etc. so that they have a record when the students apply.

And if it helps - After NYU pre-college, I was accepted to NYU Stern. My close NYU pre-college friends are all also enrolled at NYU right now.