---
title: Can research paper writing be a good summer extracurricular?
description: "Universities value authentic high school research for demonstrating intellectual curiosity and advanced analytical skills, but they are increasingly skeptical of \"pay-to-publish\" journals. Admissions officers prioritize genuine research experiences, such as the ability to discuss methodology and findings over the mere…"
url: "https://www.collegeaccessprogram.in/faq/can-research-paper-writing-be-a-good-summer-extracurricular/"
updated: "2026-05-11"
category: Summer Break
---

# Can research paper writing be a good summer extracurricular?

Universities value authentic high school research for demonstrating intellectual curiosity and advanced analytical skills, but they are increasingly skeptical of "pay-to-publish" journals. Admissions officers prioritize genuine research experiences, such as the ability to discuss methodology and findings over the mere prestige of having a published paper.