Study the ecosystems of coral reefs on daily dives in the Caribbean. Build a wooden sea kayak and paddle it along the Maine coast for 3 weeks. Learn to speak Arabic, Chinese, or Portuguese. The majority of summer experiences are designed to provide a pressure-free, noncompetitive environment in which young people can explore their areas of particular interest in depth. They have an opportunity to work with adult role models who are enthusiastic about their field and give individual support to each participant.
Gifted students find it validating to be among peers who share their own excitement and skill level.
They form bonds based on common interests with youth from around the country and the world. Many programs, especially outdoor adventures, help young people develop teamwork skills. For children whose abilities exceed those of their age mates, ungraded programs based on interest and skill rather than age provide a supportive and stimulating environment. By immersing themselves full time for a month or two in painting, architecture, marine biology, or laboratory research, they gain a realistic introduction to the content, demands, and lifestyle of a career area they may be considering. Such an experience can be helpful in deciding whether they want to pursue a topic as a hobby or a main focus.