By Chris Moffitt
Although the much-anticipated summer still seems far too distant, it is approaching more quickly than we TPA students might be envisioning. This means that now is the time to jump on the best summer opportunities before they fill up. Camps can range from $1500 a week to a low of … FREE when they are sponsored by big grants or scholarships! Even expensive camps can be free (or significantly reduced in price) if you apply early for scholarships.
College Counselor Mrs. Moffitt encourages students to get away from video games and experience life. Learn something new at camps during the summer. “These camps can also help you get into college[,]…become a better student, improve talents, make new friends, and get an idea of the excitement of going to college and living in dorms!”
Here are some camps with great recommendations by TPA students:
ASU Barrett Summer Scholars Program (grades 7-9)
The ASU Barrett Summer Scholars is “an amazing, 3 week program for ‘the best and the brightest’. It was a lot of work, but definitely worth it! You live in the Barrett dorms, which are extremely nice, and can go to the ASU Gym almost every day after interesting classes. You will meet so many people and learn to get out of your comfort zone. It is so much fun and I would definitely recommend it.” (Rachel Matsumoto, Grade 10)
“This summer program is amazing! This program also teaches you a lot about your elective course in just 3 weeks, plus the Human Events course prepares you for Humane Letters. This camp gives you a taste of the college life, and you are sure to make lasting friendships and memories.” (Tiffanie Cappello Lee, Grade 9)
Foundation for Economic Education
The Foundation for Economic Education is a one week economics camp that is free! Last year’s camp was at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. “We got to attend lectures during the day to learn about various topics in economics and finance presented by university professors. We had free time in the evening for outdoor sports, movies, and dancing. We had comfortable accommodations on campus, at the dorms, and I got a better feel for what it would be like when I go to college. It was an exciting experience and I would recommend it.” (Will Anderson, Grade 10)
This year the camp will be held in the cool pines of Prescott (less than two hours away) so lots of Tempe Prep students should apply.
César E. Chávez Leadership Institute
“The César E. Chávez Leadership Institute is a free, weeklong program, focusing on community service, teamwork, and communication. It’s almost impossible to describe the friendships, memories and the great sense of trust I’ve developed among my fellow delegates. I am a completely changed person. The program really leaves you with a sense of hope and inspires you to get more involved in the community.” (Jeremy Cappello Lee, Grade 12)
Bank of America Student Leaders Program
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a meaningful paid internship at a local Boys & Girls Club, followed by a one-week leadership program in Washington D.C. “We not only worked with kids, but learned how non-profits are run. We received a generous stipend and the unforgettable trip to D.C. was completely paid for. I would definitely recommend the program to any TPA student who is extensively involved in leadership or community work.” (Caleb Peckham, Grade 12)
These are just a few examples of the vast number of summer camps available (including camps for music, foreign languages, sports, science, engineering, etc.) and listed in Naviance (under Colleges, Enrichment Programs). Apply right away to get accepted and receive scholarships!