The Low Risk (and High Return) of Attending an Arts-Related Summer Program

Summer break isn’t just a time to unwind — it’s a golden opportunity for unique experiences and personal (and academic) growth. Performing and visual arts-related summer programs for middle and high school students open doors for participants to explore their interests more fully, develop new skills, and gain experiences far beyond the classroom.

Experience the creative industries

Many summer programs provide intensive training in specific subjects like art, music, theater, or design. 

“Whether the arts is going to be your college major or your intended profession, it benefits everyone to have experience across various mediums to learn how creativity is an important tool and resource,” said Lizzy Plapinger, co-founder, Neon Gold Records and academic advisor, NSLC. “Attending a summer arts program is an amazing opportunity for expressing yourself and communicating in more non-traditional ways.”

College fit exploration

Curious about a specific college or university? Check out its summer programs. Many institutions host programs offering a glimpse into what it’s like to go there. You’ll experience the campus facilities, meet faculty, and get a taste of college life. This opportunity is invaluable for high school students deciding whether a specific college or university fits their academic and artistic goals. 

A summer theater or music program could expose you to campus life and the faculty’s expertise and teaching styles. You’ll practice in the college’s music rooms, performance spaces, and recording studios, giving you a firsthand look at its resources.

Portfolio building

Arts-related summer programs often culminate with a final performance, exhibition, or creative project. These intensive projects push you to create new pieces showcasing your growth and current artistic level. It’s the perfect opportunity to add this valuable material to your college application portfolio.

You might take a visual arts class where your instructor encourages you to experiment with new media and techniques. Perhaps you’ll play with different artistic styles and try out a new voice in your work. Many programs also offer curated project guidance, providing a framework for your artwork; teachers mentor participants, helping them develop a cohesive body of work that tells a story. 

You may even find a summer program where the college faculty or admissions staff offers recommendations and feedback to help you build a portfolio with your strongest pieces to showcase your talents.

Pack your passport

Many summer programs are located overseas. You might travel abroad to learn about your chosen art form in its birthplace and get a lesson from the masters.

Annie L. participated in one of CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad programs: Connecting Italian Art, History & Culture in Rome, Italy. She said, “As we learned about the techniques of art in class and the history of Rome, we were able to experience both first hand. There are not enough words to describe how amazing and transforming this experience was.”

Ella K. traveled to London for CIEE Global Navigator High School Summer Abroad: Theatre Arts on London’s Stage. She said, “ I learned so much about theater, and my love for it grew. You also get to travel and make friends with people who have the same interests and passions as you. It’s so much fun." 

Wherever you go, you’ll be in good company among others who share your passions. This diverse group will become your artistic community, pushing you to think outside the box. You’ll inspire each other, and by the end of the program, you’ll approach your art with a sharper focus, surge of motivation, and perhaps even a clearer vision for your future.

Not majoring in the arts? Still a worthwhile investment

The top marketable soft skills hiring managers look for in their candidates include communication, such as listening, negotiating, speaking, and writing. Also key? Leadership, especially the ability to give and receive feedback, and teamwork (which also relies on good communication skills, responsibility, and collaboration). 

In addition to these skills, a summer arts program also reinforces teens’ self-management and motivation, solid time management, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Even if you don’t choose an arts major, the skills you’ll learn are in high demand by today’s employers and will hold you in good stead no matter what career path you choose.  

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to Performing & Visual Arts here.