Summer Research Programs for High School Students, Supporting Components

The Young Scholars Program at Northeastern University provides a diverse group of high school students who have demonstrated proficiency and interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) with the opportunity to partake in a paid college laboratory research experience. The requirements of acceptance to the program are strong academic credentials and a well-rounded balance of extra-curricular activities. The program seeks to ensure that students with a demonstrated interest and ability in STEM are provided an opportunity to participate in a comprehensive research experience before completing high school. Offering this program free of charge, with a small stipend to offset transportation costs, enables all invited students to take advantage of this opportunity. Supporting program components and the execution of these elements distinguishes it from many similar summer research programs offered at universities around the country. The framework of the supporting features of Northeastern University’s program is what enables participants to succeed in the labs, build self-efficacy in STEM and prepare them for their academic journey into college. The weekly schedule is supported through morning homerooms during which a variety of topics and activities are introduced, in addition to lunchtime technical seminars, and field trips to local companies and research facilities. Utilizing formative evaluations, such as weekly reflections to inform program design and implementation, allows staff to make adjustments that might be necessary to ensure a high level of participant and faculty satisfaction with the program. In addition, surveys are administered at the close of the summer program and annually to program alumni to ensure all program goals continue to be met. In their laboratory assignments, participants are guided and supported by a collaborative team of faculty, graduate and undergraduate student mentors. Mentors are provided a variety of resources to support their mentoring role prior to and throughout the summer experience. Participating faculty are also encouraged to share best practices across laboratories. This vertical mentoring approach ensures adequate guidance and support is provided to all participants both during and after completion of the summer program, ensuring participants develop confidence in STEM in addition to reinforcing their technical and scientific knowledge. Specific attention to these complementary and supporting aspects of the research program is what assures that all members succeed within an advanced laboratory environment and are provided with the additional tools and information necessary for college and career success.