Georgetown Summer High School Student Testimonial

Gillian Dixon

Class of 2020

Elizabeth Seton High School.

Why did you choose to participate in a summer program?

Being my last summer as a high school student, I decided to make the best use possible of it with that being to spend my summer preparing for demanding collegiate life head-on at one of the world’s most renowned universities in the Nation’s Capital.

How did you decide which program was right for you?

Upon choosing a program, I was immediately drawn to Georgetown’s great variety of options. Georgetown offers an array of programs ranging from one-week seminars to five weeks of college credit courses. Ultimately, I selected the five-week college credit program in which I was able to take multiple college credit-granting courses alongside Georgetown students of all ages. Wanting a head-start in college, I knew this program was right for me because of the rigor and challenge it posed, all of which was completely worth it.

What was a typical day in your summer program?

A typical day in my summer program included catching breakfast with a friend at the nearby deli shop Wisemiller’s (where the bagels are amazing!) and then finishing up any work from the day before in preparation for my 1:30 p.m. U.S. Political Systems class. Getting out at 3:30 p.m., I would then head to Epicurean to catch lunch before my 5:45 p.m. Intermediate Spanish class and, if time permits engage in a fun activity hosted by the Georgetown Summer Hoya staff ranging from sand volleyball to hilarious ice-breakers. Getting out of my second class at 7:45 p.m., I quickly found my new friends and we’d do many things either on campus or on the bustling M Street that Georgetown’s known for. We would do things like seeing the latest movie and get a burger, or, we’d stay right on campus and do face masks with our entire floor. It’s truly a routine I’ll never forget!

What was the most memorable moment of your summer? 


Of this rewarding summer, the most memorable moment has to be the last gathering of my five-week college credit group. We received our honors certificates and celebrated with a pizza party and emotional speeches of gratitude from the students and staff. The room was full of laughter, tears, and joy and is something I will always cherish.

What advice do you have for teens looking at summer programs? 


In your search for a summer program, I hope you’ll remember to choose a program with your best interest, whether that be a one-week law immersion, a five-week college credit program, or even a three-week foreign policy program. No matter which program you choose, you are bound to form long-lasting friendships, make great memories, and most importantly gain immense knowledge from Georgetown’s stimulating faculty.