Which activities and summer programs deserve a student's time? This evidence review separates learning and contribution from unsupported claims of an admissions advantage. Official university statements, application formats, program descriptions, and financial data show why a college name, certificate, or long activity list cannot settle the decision. Comparisons cover reporting limits, summer-program admissions policies, funded opportunities, travel coverage, and published fees. Families receive an original four-year planning framework, an opportunity-cost example, and concrete expectations for a consultant's work. Selected company records illustrate planning and verification without claiming that proposed work was completed or improved admission outcomes.