Top 10 Summer Programs for High Schoolers

#1 - Inspirit AI - Inspirit AI offers online artificial intelligence programs for high school students, developed and taught by alumni and graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and other top universities. The program aims to inspire students by providing hands-on AI project experiences, personalized mentorship, and guidance for college preparation. It connects students with top AI experts, fosters the development of socially impactful projects, and prepares participants for future academic and career pursuits in technology.

#2 - ESF Camps - ESF Camps offers a range of summer camp experiences for children of all ages, providing a blend of fun, skill-building, and tradition. With over 60 activities, including sports, arts, and STEM programs, ESF Camps are held on secure campuses across several states, offering tailored programs to suit each child’s interests. It offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests, ensuring a safe and enriching summer experience that fosters growth and lifelong memories. 

#3 - BOLD Summers - Bold Summers offers specialized pre-college summer programs in fields like medicine, business, entrepreneurship, fashion, and engineering, with prestigious experiences such as the Penn Medicine Summer Program. These camps provide students with hands-on learning, exposure to professional fields, and the chance to live on college campuses, enhancing their summer with unique educational opportunities. It is highly regarded for its immersive learning environment, expert mentorship, and preparation for future academic pursuits.

#4 - The Summer Science Program (SSP) - The Summer Science Program (SSP) offers high school students an immersive experience in experimental science through hands-on research projects in fields like astrophysics, biochemistry, genomics, and synthetic chemistry. Participants work in teams, guided by expert faculty, to complete real scientific research, fostering collaboration and advanced learning. It is celebrated for its rigorous, community-focused environment that inspires academic and personal growth, often described as "the educational experience of a lifetime."

#5 - Research in Science & Engineering Program (RISE) - The RISE (Research in Science & Engineering) program at Boston University offers high school juniors a six-week immersive experience in scientific research. Participants choose between the Internship track, which involves working on individual research projects under expert mentorship, and the Practicum track, which focuses on group research in computational neurobiology. It is known for its hands-on, intensive approach that prepares students for future STEM careers by enhancing research skills and offering professional development opportunities.

#6 - Leadership in the Business World (LBW) - The Leadership in the Business World (LBW) program at Wharton offers rising high school seniors an introduction to undergraduate business education through lectures, real-world business simulations, and team-building activities. Participants engage with Wharton faculty and industry leaders, gaining skills in leadership, teamwork, and communication. This program is exceptional for its dynamic curriculum that combines academic rigor with practical business insights, preparing students for future careers in business.

#7 - Young Women’s Institute - The Kelley Women’s Leadership Institute at Indiana University offers a selective program that introduces high school women to business careers through workshops, real-world business projects, and leadership skill-building. Participants interact with Kelley School of Business faculty, alumni, and peers, creating a supportive environment for future business leaders. It is well-known for fostering leadership and business skills in a collaborative setting, preparing young women for academic and professional success.

#8 - LaunchX - LaunchX offers immersive entrepreneurship programs for high school students, both online and in-person, where participants develop their own startups through hands-on learning, mentorship, and team collaboration. Programs are available in Ann Arbor, the Bay Area, and online, focusing on real-world business challenges. It stands out for its emphasis on practical entrepreneurship, expert guidance, and a supportive community, making it ideal for students looking to build foundational business skills.

#9 - Cronkite Summer Journalism Institute (SJI) - Camp Cronkite at ASU offers a summer media camp for high school students, providing hands-on learning in journalism, digital marketing, and media skills in a collegiate environment. Led by Cronkite School faculty, the camp combines professional media training with a taste of college life on ASU’s Downtown Phoenix campus. It is great for its immersive approach, allowing students to explore media careers while building practical skills and a professional portfolio.

#10 - Interlochen Summer Arts Camp - Interlochen Arts Camp offers summer programs for students in grades 3-12 in various artistic disciplines, including music, theater, dance, visual arts, creative writing, and film. Participants receive top-tier instruction in a beautiful Michigan setting, combining outdoor activities with immersive arts training. It is highly valued for its blend of rigorous artistic education and traditional camp experiences, fostering both creative growth and lifelong friendships.