Student Testimonial: Summer Discovery

Shayna Millman - Summer Discovery

What inspired you to sign-up for Summer Discovery?

When I first heard about Summer Discovery, I knew right away that I wanted to get a glimpse of what college life was actually like. I’ve always been someone who likes to plan ahead and get a sense of what’s coming next, so spending part of my summer on a real college campus sounded like the perfect opportunity. I wanted to understand what it feels like to live, study, and make connections in a college environment before it’s time for me to apply. I figured, why wait until senior year to experience that when I could start exploring early and get a deeper perspective than most students my age?

How did you choose which campuses to attend?

UCLA was one of my dream schools, so I knew from the start that I definitely wanted to experience a program there. But after talking with someone from the Summer Discovery team, I was encouraged to also look into the program at UT Austin, which matched many of my interests and personality. The Summer Discovery advisor said it would be a great opportunity to experience two totally different campuses and learning environments, and they were completely right. 

How much time did you spend at each campus?

I spent three weeks at UT Austin and then three weeks at UCLA, and honestly, that combination couldn’t have been more perfect. I was extremely privileged to experience two programs over the summer, which felt like a great fit for me since I had already spent about five to six weeks away from home during previous summers. That extra independence helped me feel comfortable right away and let me really make the most of both experiences.

Can you describe a typical day during the program?

A typical day in my program started with grabbing breakfast with friends and getting ready together. It really felt like we were living in a dorm community. Walking across a huge, beautiful campus every morning was surreal. I loved exploring, finding little study spots, and soaking in the college atmosphere. Then it was off to classes, where I got to dive deeper into subjects that actually excited me. In the afternoons, we would grab lunch, hang out, and join fun activities both on and off campus. Every day felt full and meaningful in the best way.

What stands out as your favorite memory from the summer?

If I had to pick the most memorable moment, it would hands down be the live band karaoke night. Performing on stage was such a cool experience that helped me gain confidence as a performer and reminded me how much I love music. What made it even better was seeing my friends totally let loose and cheer each other on. It was one of those nights where everyone felt connected and happy.

What advice would you give to students considering Summer Discovery?

For teens considering a program like this, my biggest piece of advice is to go for it. I remember when my older cousins came home from college for the holidays and immediately said, “I can’t wait to go back.” I had that same exact feeling after Summer Discovery. When I got home, all I could think about was, “When can I go back?” It is that same feeling of belonging, growth, and excitement, and it is something you will carry with you long after the summer ends.