#162 Expert Guide to Summer Programs for Teens with Cindy McCormick

Flourish Coaching

Feb 18, 2025

In this episode, Lisa and Cindy discuss:

Summer programs as a college & career exploration tool
Enhancing college applications through summer experiences
The rise of STEM programs & growing competition
Choosing the right summer program & avoiding misleading claims

Key Takeaways:

Deadlines for selective summer programs are often in January or early February, with some as early as November and a few extending into April. Families should plan ahead to secure a spot.
Most summer programs on prestigious college campuses do not improve admission chances, and many are run by third-party companies rather than the universities themselves.
Students should document their experiences in real-time, either through journaling or voice memos, to capture meaningful reflections that can later strengthen college essays.
A handful of colleges indirectly favor applicants who attend their summer programs, but this is rarely advertised publicly. Independent educational consultants (IECs) may have insider knowledge of which programs provide an admissions edge.

“If you took the summer off, didn’t explore that interest, applied to that major at a college specializing in it—then found out you didn’t like it… now you’re a year or two in, money spent, and thinking—wait, I want to change my mind. For me, the biggest value is confirming interests or ruling them out.” – Cindy McCormick

About Cindy McCormick:

Cindy McCormick is a dedicated college advisor who helps high school students find their best-fit universities. With degrees from UCLA and certifications from UC Santa Barbara and UC San Diego, she brings extensive expertise. Before founding CMCA, she taught in New York and California and later specialized in college applications and essay writing. She also coached competitive STEM teams, guiding students to global championships. As a mother of five, a Gifted and Talented educator, and an autism specialist, Cindy values each student’s unique journey, ensuring personalized and impactful advising.

Episode References:

Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/
Wow Writing Workshop: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

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