Anyone ever been, particularly if you're from North Carolina? It looks amazing, but I'm hesitant to apply, because I can't visualize what it'd be like--what do you do during free time? (are you allowed off campus?) I'm not an athletic person, but I'm not anti-social. I would normally jump on an oppurtinity like this without question, but I have to choose between Governor's School and a People to People trip to Europe. I'd hate to pass on the latter choice, because last year I went with People To People to Australia and had, possibly, the best time in my life. It seems like Governor's school would be a huge contrast--last summer, I had never been to as many places in such a short amount of time; At governor's school, I'll have never stayed in one place for so long. I suppose it would make it easier to decide if I didn't have to apply-- If I choose to apply for Governor's School, then don't get in, I'll feel like an ass, for 6 months. You find out if you're accepted in March, and if I don't get accepted, all summer I'll be thinking of how I could be a million miles away from North Carolina.
I would do Governor's school if you can. It works a bit differently in Georgia (you have to be nominated at your school, then go through eliminations at your school, county, then state level) but my best friend made it for history and it was the best experience he ever had. Also, maybe look into high school study abroad programs. They might not count for anything, and you should never do something JUST because it looks good to college, but it looks much better than People to People and you could have a better time- especially if you study a language. If you can afford it, go ahead and apply for a few things. Governor's schools are generally free, no? But I know I got almost a full financial aid/merit scholarship for a summer program after my junior year and it was a great experience.
