I Know What You Did Last Summer: Summer Program Resume Building for Students

By Dani Houck, College Essay and Scholarship Coach

Many students and their families are interested in resume building, and it’s worth a fresh look at the phrase itself and strategies. “Resume building” can also be seen further as authentic interest building, leading to a resume as a record reflecting the student as an individual–a record which can quickly show more about the student and help them explore and gain further desired experiences. 

One popular area where students can build foundations related to their interests: college professional summer programs, which go hand in hand with expanding students’ interests, dedication, and early professional growth.

Students gain unique opportunities to form relationships with like-minded peers at summer programs, as well as with mentors in the field. Some offer opportunities for students to return in future program leadership positions and exposure to a college atmosphere, whether via residential campus stays or convenient online experiences with professionals and peers. 

Other programs offer projects with outside companies and professionals to complement the learning experience. One My Pathway to College student, Kate, shared, “I made lots of friends who I still keep in contact with. The UCLA Summer Discovery program allowed us to connect with many professionals in various fields…it’s definitely possible to establish connections.”

Let’s explore some exciting options for summers:

1. UCLA: “The Summer Discovery for High School Students: Sports Business Program will address key shifts in the industry and identify ways for students to innovate and lead in a number of job functions. Our two-week summer course provides our high school students with an overview of key business principles, major trends, and innovation across the sports industry.” 

My Pathway to College student, Kate, attended the sports business program and says: “...overall really positive! I got to meet so many new people, experience what college may be like, and feel truly independent. Some benefits were being able to try dorm-life and be away from my home and family. 

…I also got to experience a lot of fun things in Los Angeles like the Grove and got to explore the beautiful UCLA campus. I would definitely recommend this to others, especially if they feel apprehensive about being away from home and dorming in college.”

Program info, click here. 

Additional program info, click here.

2. Summer Discovery's renowned University options all encompass these objectives: “Summer Discovery's pre-college program isn't just about academics—it's a launchpad into the world of higher education, preparing you for college life and beyond. It's the perfect fusion of transformation, learning, and fun, where you'll forge lifelong friendships and return to high school brimming with newfound confidence.

Summer Discovery's diverse fields of study, spanning STEM, psychology, arts, law, business, math, science, and so much more, are taught by experts and leaders in their respective fields of study. Our programs deliver tangible results that enable you to strengthen your college application and propel you forward with the confidence and clarity to define your future career goals.”

Program info, click here.

3. Carnegie Mellon University: Summer Academy for students underrepresented in STEM fields, Summer Academy Math and Science (SAMS) Carnegie Mellon staff write: “For over twenty-five years, the Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) program has engaged students in a rigorous curriculum taught by faculty and staff who are deeply committed to student success. 

Led by the Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion, SAMS allows students to develop a deeper understanding of STEM via traditional classroom instruction, through hands-on projects, and sustained engagement with world-renowned faculty and skilled staff mentors. In addition to their academic experiences, students also have the opportunity to collaborate and develop meaningful relationships with peers from across the country.” 

At the end of the program, “students will showcase their STEM projects and celebrate their achievements at the Research Symposium. This capstone event includes student presentations and an awards ceremony, with options for families and caregivers to attend either in person or virtually.”

SAMS is a fully funded, merit-based program. 

Program info, click here.

Additional Carnegie Mellon summer opportunities.

4. The University of Texas at Austin business-focused options:

McCombs Future Executive Academy (MFEA);

Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders;

Discover Yourself In Accounting Majors and Careers 

Business-minded students: network with industry professionals, participate in a case study competition, and explore Austin. Students can apply for a "free, six-day experience focused on business and leadership that offers rising junior and senior high school students the chance to learn and interact with McCombs students, faculty, and corporate representatives.”

“All students are eligible to apply; however, we strongly encourage outstanding students who are first-generation and students who have overcome social or economic hardships to apply.” 

Program info, click here.

Additional UT Austin offerings, click here.

5.  NSLC Pre-med/Nursing or Pre-law:

On 12 campuses, including Duke University, UC Berkeley, and Georgetown University, as well as the University of Oxford, “The National Student Leadership Conference provides an immersive pre-college experience that prepares students for life beyond middle and high school, allowing them to study in university classrooms, learn to navigate a campus, and experience living with roommates. Students are able to explore a career concentration they are interested in before going to college and declaring a major.”

Pre-med program info click here. 

Nursing program info click here.

Pre-law program info click here.

Additional programs click here.

6. NYU: business, economics, management, and entrepreneurship; Career Edge

Would you like to learn in the Big Apple? NYU offers this point to consider: “There's no better place to study business than New York City, a global epicenter of modern trade and commerce. Our high school students take field trips to Wall Street and connect with industry professionals working in a variety of professional fields.”

Additionally, the Career Edge program gives students time to explore possible careers and the decision-making process for “traditional and emerging careers in fields, like publishing, business start-ups, event planning, finance, medicine, and many more.”

Business program info: click here. 

Career Edge program info: click here.

Finally, for future applicants/attendees, My Pathway to College student, Kate, shares these reflective words of wisdom: “I would say don’t stress too much about it. I was so stressed the week leading up to UCLA for no reason, and ended up having an amazing time. It was scary in theory, but it ended up being an experience I would do again.”

She continues, “My favorite part was basically playing the role of a college student. I got to go back to my dorm every day, eat at the dining halls, and have independence and freedom after class. I learned more about industries I do and do not want to go into, so I got something out of that class!”

No matter which career-related course or campus, students will find easier academic and social transitions to make the most of college time, internships, and career. After participating, students can follow up with a “thank you,” sharing what they appreciated, distinguishing themselves, and maintaining connections. 

Any of these programs added to a growing resume quickly show a wonderful dimension to college admissions officers. Take the pressure out of “resume building” and think of it as “interest building.” Give yourself lots of time, enjoy selecting the programs which are your best exploratory fit, and remember, My Pathway to College is always here to help with the process.