So, you've heard about the Shad Canada Summer Program and now you're wondering, "Is this exclusive, expensive summer camp really worth all the hype?" 

This program offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an innovative, hands-on learning environment while connecting with like-minded peers.

We get it. You're ambitious, curious, and looking for opportunities to explore STEAM fields and make an impact. But, at the same time, you're also a high school student trying to figure out the best way to invest your time and money.

We've all been there, right? 

Feeling that mix of curiosity and anxiety as you consider whether to invest time, energy, and money into something as big as the Shad Summer Program. 

But here's the thing: The Shad Canada Summer Program has garnered reputation for a reason. It has caught the attention of ambitious high school students like you, year after year. 

And that says something.

This review will explore the Shad Summer Program. We will compare it to other summer programs and discuss its benefits and drawbacks. Additionally, we will share some personal experiences from Jane, who has attended the program before. 

‍

Here is what we are going to talk about:

• Jane's Personal Experience
• Compare Shad Summer Program with BETA Camp
• Key benefits 
• Drawbacks
• Jane's Perspective and Recommendation
• Final Verdict 

‍

So, let's jump in and find out if it's really worth the hype.

‍

‍

Jane's Personal Experience with the Shad Summer Program

Alright, let's dive into Jane's personal experience with the program. 

After getting selected, you're matched with a university campus and spend the summer there. Jane was matched with the University of Prince Edward Island but attended the program online 'cause, you know, the pandemic.

As part of the application, you'll need to tackle three essay question:

• Why did you apply?
• What makes you a good leader?
• The list of extra curricular activities you’ve been involved in. 

‍

You will also need to get referrals from teachers or employers. From there, they’ll score your application and that is how they make their selections. 

Jane was sent a welcome package - which differs from each university campus. Her’s had personalized college souvenirs. 

The program explores various STEAM disciplines through guest lectures, workshops, and group projects. Guest speakers come from all sorts of backgrounds like science, robotics, and engineering.

Shad gives you a problem statement and it tasks you to find a solution. Your design team then works on the best possible outcome to solve that problem statement. At the end of the program you present your solution to everyone. 

Jane says she enjoyed working on her design team project, where they were tasked with finding ways to help Canadians save more water.

One of the highlights for her was the opportunity to connect with like-minded, ambitious students from all over Canada. Coming from a small high school, she didn't always have the opportunity to meet people outside her radius. 

She said that forming bonds with her group and meeting people outside her usual circle was a significant benefit of the program. 

It's amazing how lasting friendships can form even in virtual settings, right?

On the flip side, Jane compared the Shad experience with another summer program she took part in, BETA Camp, which was less expensive and offered more hands-on learning. While she learned a lot during her time at Shad, she felt that BETA Camp was more engaging and provided more practical experiences, such as building a startup from scratch.

‍

‍

Comparing Shad Summer Program with BETA Camp

We're about to compare the Shad Summer Program with BETA Camp. Remember, though, that everyone's experience is unique, so what works for one person might not work for another. 

Got it? Great. 

When it comes to the learning experience, Shad focuses more on theory-based knowledge. They want to fill your brain with all those fascinating concepts. On the other hand, BETA Camp takes a more practical approach. It's like learning to ride a bike by actually getting on one instead of just reading a manual. 

Which style suits you better? Theory or practice?

Here's another thing to ponder: the atmosphere. Shad has a reputation for being a networking hub for kids. By contrast,BETA Camp has a cool entrepreneurial vibe. It's like hanging out with a bunch of innovative creators, cooking up amazing ideas together. 

So, what kind of environment would you feel more productive and inspired in? 

Now, the pivotal question: which program is better?

Well, that depends on what you value most. 

Do you want theoretical knowledge and the chance to network like a pro? Then Shad might be what you like.. 

Or are you more into hands-on learning and unleashing your inner entrepreneur? In that case, BETA Camp could be your ticket to success.

Remember, it's all about what you value and what gets you excited. So, take a moment to reflect on what really matters to you. 

Ready? Awesome. Let's move on to the next part of our adventure.

‍

Key Benefits of the Shad Summer Program

Now that we've stacked up Shad Canada to BETA Camp, let's dive into the benefits that the Shad Summer Program has to offer.

1. Community and Networking Opportunities

One of the biggest benefits of the Shad program is the opportunity to connect with like-minded students from across Canada. Many participants come from small high schools and may not have had the chance to meet others who share their interests and passion for STEAM subjects.

At Shad, students can forge lasting friendships and create a supportive network that could be beneficial later in their academic and professional lives.

‍

2. Exposure to STEAM and Entrepreneurship

Shad is a STEAM-based program, meaning it covers a wide range of subjects like science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. This broad scope provides students with the chance to explore different fields and discover their interests. 

Plus, the program throws in some entrepreneurship-focused projects to help hone your problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

3. Hands-on Learning and Skill Building

Although the program's emphasis is on theoretical knowledge, students do have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning, like engineering-based labs and group projects. 

These experiences can offer valuable insights into possible career paths and help create tight-knit bonds among participants.

4. Selectivity and Prestige

The Shad Summer Program is known for being selective, accepting only half of the 2,000 applications they receive each year. This exclusivity can makes it stand out on your university applications and resume addition to a student's university application or resume.

And let's be real, it's kinda cool knowing you were chosen among the brightest and most talented kids.

‍5. Personal Growth and Transformation

Many students have found the Shad Summer Program to be transformative in their personal and academic lives. The diverse range of workshops, guest speakers, and project experiences can open up new doors of possibilities for participants. 

Some students, who initially had their hearts set on a single subject, actually ended up considering a wider array of career options after their time at Shad.

However, it's important to keep in mind that the Shad Summer Program may not be transformative for everyone. Each student's experience is different, and while some may find the program life-changing, others might not feel the same way. The key is to approach it with an open mind and be ready to embrace new opportunities and challenges.

‍

Considerations and Drawbacks of the Shad Summer Program

The first drawback is that the program was held virtually during the pandemic, which might not provide the same immersive experience as being on campus. We all know that online learning can be a hit or miss. 

Jane mentioned feeling a bit disconnected from some of the guest lectures, especially when the topics weren't relevant to her interests. Imagine sitting through an hour-long lecture on tidal waves when you're more into robotics? Snooze.

Jane also felt that the program was more focused on theory than practical application. 

Working on a design team project might sound exciting, but it ended up feeling more like a school project than an opportunity to truly experiment and learn. The world problems presented were tackled with theoretical solutions, but there was no way to know if those ideas would work in the real world.

Jane's Perspective and Recommendation

So, what’s Jane’s take on this? 

Well, she believes that Shad is a solid experience for students who aren't quite sure about their career path. The program exposes participants to a variety of workshops and lectures from professionals in specialized fields, opening their eyes to new possibilities.

However, she also admits that the program's exclusivity and selectivity can make it seem overhyped. She found the application process, which involves answering essay questions and providing teacher or employer referrals a tad intimidating.

But if you make it through, you'll be among Canada’s "brightest and most talented" kids, which might give you a confidence boost.

Jane felt that Shad Canada was transformative, broadening her horizons and introducing her to new people and ideas. She even ended up attending university with one of the friends she met at Shad. 

That being said, she mentioned that there were other programs that were more transformative for her - offering a more intense intellectual experience.

“I absolutely loved SHAD 2020 - I still talk to my design team almost every day and have so many memories and stories - I learned a lot.”

‍

So, is Shad worth it? 

It depends on your goals and interests. It depends on what you're looking for. If you're looking for a program that exposes you to various STEAM disciplines, connects you with like-minded students, and challenges you to think critically, Shad might be the right fit. 

But if you're more interested in hands-on learning and practical experience, another program like BETA Camp could be a better option.

Keep in mind that every student's experience will be unique, and it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of the Shad Summer Program against your own interests, goals, and financial situation. 

After all, you know yourself best, and ultimately, the decision is yours to make. 

Taking it all in: What's the Verdict? 

Phew, that was quite a journey, wasn't it? 

You're probably feeling a mix of emotions right now – excitement, doubt, and maybe even a little bit of confusion. It's totally normal to wonder, "Is the Shad Summer Program really for me, or is there something else out there that would suit me better?"

Well, we're here to tell you: you got this! 

Trust your gut, and know that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. 

Remember, we covered a ton of useful info: comparisons with other summer programs, the benefits and drawbacks of Shad, and Jane's personal experience. Use that knowledge to make the best decision for you.

Or you could try BETA Camp for a lifetime experience of building a real business, showcasing your skills in college applications, and networking with a highly exclusive and ambitious group of teens, all while gaining real-life learning.

You might be thinking, "But what if I choose the wrong program?" 

Don't stress. Whatever path you choose, it's the experience, the learning, and the people you meet that truly matter. There's a whole world of opportunities out there, and this decision is just one step on your amazing journey. 

So, get out there and make the most of your summer - with confidence. 

No matter where your journey takes you – whether it's Shad, BETA Camp, or something else entirely – know that you're capable of achieving incredible things.

‍