Ask the Experts

How to Choose Summer Programs Colleges Notice

Thursday, January 8, 2026
7pm ET
Margaux Peabody
Andover Summer at Phillips Academy
Allyson Randall
ESM Prep College MatchPoint
Jenny Evans
Reach Cambridge
Michael Dean
Guidewell Education
Rielly Wieners
ESM Prep

Cut Through the Summer Planning Confusion

Every year, families ask the same question: Which summer programs actually help with college admissions? Between classmates comparing plans and social media amplifying the pressure, it’s hard to know what really matters.

In this free webinar, our expert panel will clarify how summer experiences—from campus programs and online courses to internships, jobs, and volunteering — really factor into admissions decisions.

How to Choose Summer Programs Colleges Notice

Help Your Student Stand Out With a Purposeful Summer Plan

Thursday, January 8
7pm ET

Can’t Make it Live? No problem!
Sign up anyway, and we’ll send you the recording.

What You'll Learn

Clear guidance on building a summer plan with real admissions impact.

What Colleges Value

Learn how admissions teams evaluate summer experiences and what truly stands out.

Impact of Summer Activities

Understand how programs, jobs, internships, and other experiences influence admissions outcomes.

Grade-Level Priorities

Get clear guidance on what 9th, 10th, and 11th graders should focus on each summer.

Choosing the Right Opportunities

Use a simple framework to identify summer options that align with your student’s goals.

Ready to Build a High-Impact Summer Plan?  

Meet the Panel

Bob Carlton
ESM Prep College MatchPoint
Senior College Coach (Moderator)

Bob brings 30+ years of higher-ed experience to helping students identify their strengths and find colleges that fit their goals. He specializes in STEM and business pathways and draws on extensive campus knowledge and leadership roles in higher-ed publishing. He is an IECA member and serves on the IECA Board of Directors.

Margaux Peabody
Andover Summer at Phillips Academy
Associate Director & Dean of Admissions

Margaux brings over 20 years of experience in education to her role at Andover Summer, one of the nation’s premier academic enrichment programs. A former high school science teacher and school board leader, she offers deep insight into secondary education and college preparation. Margaux holds a master’s degree in Private School Leadership from Columbia University and brings a thoughtful, parent-informed perspective to her work.

Allyson Randall
ESM Prep College MatchPoint
Senior College Coach

Allyson has over a decade of experience guiding students toward colleges that fit their academic and personal goals. She brings a warm, student-centered approach to summer planning, major exploration, school selection, and essay writing. She holds an MS from Johns Hopkins University and a BA from UT Austin’s Plan II program.

Jenny Evans
Reach Cambridge
Managing Director

Jenny has spent 15 years at Reach Cambridge, first as Director of Operations and now as Managing Director. A former ESOL teacher in Barcelona and highly rated English instructor at Reach, she brings deep experience in student programming and leadership. Each summer, she helps guide the senior team in Cambridge to ensure a fun, supportive, and academically enriching experience for students.

Michael Dean
Guidewell Education
VP, Academic Services

With 20 years of experience, Michael oversees Tutor Services, Training, and Academic Client Services for Guidewell Education. He joined Summit in 2006 and has held multiple management roles, consistently demonstrating a strong customer service focus and commitment to integrity. A trusted partner to schools and independent counselors, Michael is known for his dedication to supporting students and families.

Rielly Wieners
ESM Prep
College Coach

Rielly is a former Assistant Director of Admission at Stanford University, where she reviewed thousands of applications and helped students tell their stories effectively. She also brings experience as a Division I athletic liaison and recruiting coordinator at Wesleyan University. As a first-generation college graduate, she is dedicated to helping students find their voice and reach their potential.

Reserve Your Spot

Give your student a summer that builds confidence, independence, and real admissions value.
Register Now

Looking for Personalized Support?

Schedule a call with an Applerouth Program Director or reach us at (866)-789-PREP (7737).

Male Program Director with his arms crossed, smiling