5 hot summer programs

Careers and Colleges, March-April, 2005

Beat the summer brain drain with an experience that will challenge you mentally and possibly physically as well.

1. AMERICAN FIELD SERVICE www.afs.org/usa. Live with a host family and immerse yourself in the language and culture of a country in Latin America, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, or Africa. DURATION: Six- to eight-week summer sessions. COST: Ranges from about $4,000 to $5,000. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Varies.

2. EARTHWATCH INSTITUTE www.earthwatch.org. Students age 16 and up can choose from more than 100 hands-on research expeditions all over the world, in ecology, endangered ecosystems, wildlife management, and more. DURATION: 7 to 21 days. COST: Ranges from about $1,000 to $2,500. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Varies.

3. GONZAGA'S SUMMER DEBATE INSTITUTE www.gonzagadebate.edu. If you really have the gift of gab and are on a debate team in high school, you might consider attending Gonzaga University's summer debate institute for high school students in Spokane, WA. The Zags have consistently ranked in the top 10 college debate teams. DURATION: Two to four weeks, beginning on July 2. COST: $600-$2,440. APPLICATION DEADLINE: June 20.

4. MOUNTAIN WORKSHOP www.mountainwork shop.com. The experts at Mountain Workshop have more than two decades of experience taking young people on adventures where they learn white-water canoeing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and more. DURATION: Trips run from one day to one week. COST: $100 to $1,600. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Varies.

5. SUMMER COLLEGE AT SYRACUSE www.summercollege.syr.edu. Get a jump on earning college credit and learning some very cutting-edge skills in areas such as forensics, entrepreneurship, technical theater, and fashion design. Mostly sophomores and juniors apply, but graduating seniors are welcome, too. DURATION: Six weeks starting in July. COST: From $5,314 and $5,700, but you can apply for financial aid as well. APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 14.