Research Opportunities Database for High School Students
A comprehensive guide to research opportunities and science competitions available for high school students across the US. We've compiled a detailed list of research opportunities by region, subject and institution below!
What research opportunity are you looking for?
High School Honors
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High School Honors offers high school students the chance to experience college life in Boston, studying alongside BU undergraduates. Participants can earn up to 8 college credits across various subjects like biology, economics, and philosophy. With access to BU's esteemed faculty and resources, students receive academic advising and support. Engaging in social activities, they forge connections with peers from diverse backgrounds. The program, available to both commuters and residents, provides a rich educational and social experience, preparing students for future academic endeavors while fostering lifelong friendships.
The Artemis Project
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The Artemis Project is a five-week summer program aimed at rising 9th grade girls, offering a deep dive into computer science. Participants engage with various programming languages including Scratch, AppInventor, HTML, CSS, and Python. They explore diverse topics such as robotics, cryptography, artificial intelligence, and circuits. The program emphasizes practical application, showcasing how computer science concepts are utilized in real-world scenarios through guest speaker sessions and field trips. Led by Boston University undergraduate students, it offers a hands-on learning environment to inspire and empower young women in the field of technology.
BU AI4ALL
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AI4All is a three-week summer program tailored for high school juniors, particularly young women, aimed at delving into the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Throughout the program, participants will engage in various AI topics such as robotics, computer vision, and natural language processing. This will be facilitated through team projects, industry field trips, and presentations delivered by guest speakers. The program culminates with a small group research project where participants showcase their findings through presentations to friends and family. Overall, AI4All offers a unique opportunity for young women to immerse themselves in AI exploration and development during their high school years.
Musical Theater Camp
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The Musical Theater Camp 2024 by Oglebay Institute offers a week-long immersive experience for students entering grades 4 through 8. Led by experienced instructors Erin Bond and Tim Thompson, participants will delve into the world of musical theater, honing their singing, dancing, and acting skills. The camp includes physical and vocal warm-ups, scene work, song rehearsals, and choreography sessions, all culminating in a showcase performance on Friday at 2:00 pm. Registration costs $190 or $160 for OI members, which includes a camp t-shirt. To enroll, attendees must complete health and information forms. The cancellation policy requires a two-week notice for a full refund, with a $20 cancellation fee for cancellations made after April 1. Don't miss this opportunity for a fun and educational experience in the vibrant world of musical theater!
Junior Movie Makers
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Join Junior Movie Makers 2024 at Oglebay Institute's Towngate for two weeks of movie-making excitement! Perfect for kids entering grades 4 to 7, this camp runs from July 8-12 and July 15-19, from 9 am to 3 pm daily. Led by experienced instructors David Gaudio and Patrick Ingold, participants will sharpen acting skills and learn on-camera techniques while collaborating to create a short film. Registration includes a commemorative t-shirt. Ensure your child's spot by completing health and information forms. Cancellations made at least two weeks before the camp start date are eligible for a full refund, minus a $20 cancellation fee after April 1. Don't miss this opportunity for cinematic fun in the Upper Ohio Valley!
Acting Camp
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The Acting Camp Session 3, scheduled for June 17-21, 2024, offers an engaging experience for children entering grades 3 through 8. Led by instructors Alex Hill, Tim Thompson, and P.D. Gregg, campers learn the fundamentals of acting while rehearsing a short play chosen on the first day. The program focuses on enhancing vocal and physical skills through warm-up exercises, play acting games, and creative exploration with props. The camp runs from 9 am to 3 pm daily, with a performance scheduled for 2 pm on Friday, where campers showcase their newly acquired skills.
Summer Brass Academy
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The West Virginia University Summer Brass Academy, held June 10-14, 2024, offers a week-long immersive experience for brass musicians completing grades 8-12. Led by WVU Brass Faculty, the program focuses on technical proficiency, interpretive skills, and exposure to various musical genres. Participants engage in masterclasses, individual lessons, and chamber music ensembles, with emphasis on music entrepreneurship, pedagogy, and wellness. The academy caters to diverse musical interests and backgrounds, encouraging versatility and proficiency in varied styles. Both residential and commuter options are available. The daily schedule includes warm-up sessions, rehearsals, recitals, individual practice time, and special topics sessions. The program concludes with a performance and reception. Scholarships and financial aid assistance are available. Feedback from participants is welcomed for continual improvement.
GEAR UP
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GEAR UP Southern West Virginia's STEM camp, hosted by WVU Tech in Beckley, is a week-long opportunity for 7th and 8th graders interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Taking place from June 16-21, 2024, the camp offers a dynamic learning environment with classes, experiments, and field trips. It aims to inspire students about potential STEM careers, providing interaction with professors and college students in these fields. Exclusive to rising 8th and 9th graders in West Virginia's GEAR UP SWV program, encompassing Mercer, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming Counties, the camp is free of charge.
Camp STEM
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Camp STEM is a week-long camp held at WVU Tech's campus in Beckley, West Virginia, catering to high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. The program offers a variety of classes, including electronics, forensic investigation, automotive engineering, and robotics competitions. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and field trips led by expert instructors and supported by upper-class WVU Tech student counselors. The fee covers meals, accommodation, t-shirts, activities, and scholarships are available. Camp STEM provides an immersive and enjoyable environment for students to explore STEM disciplines, interact with professors and college students, and gain insight into potential STEM careers.
Summer Bridge Program
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West Virginia University offers a Summer Bridge program aimed at helping incoming freshmen transition from high school to college. The program features three-week online courses running from June 24 to July 12, 2024. Courses cover subjects like Sustainability Studies, Communication Studies, and Philosophy, with emphasis on academic demands, resource navigation, and learning strategies for success. Each course includes a student success coach for support in time management and study skills. Participants can engage in Project 168, earning co-curricular credit for extracurricular activities. Students are expected to maintain academic integrity and pass courses with a grade of C or better. Registration requires completing a survey, and inquiries can be directed to the CLASS Advising Center. The program aims to provide a head start for freshmen in adapting to college life and academic expectations.
What is a Research Project?
A research project is a structured and systematic investigation into specific topic or question. It involves a series of planned activities. Research projects often require students to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, surveys, or literature reviews, and present their findings in a clear and organized manner. These projects foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for the research process. They provide students with valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to their field of interest while enhancing their academic and personal growth.
Why do a research project as a high school student?
Research projects can play a pivotal role in shaping the academic journey and future prospects of high school students. Engaging in research while still in school not only helps students discover their passions but also significantly enhances their chances of successful college admissions.
Exploring research projects allows high school students to delve into various fields of study, providing them with a firsthand experience of what truly interests them. This hands-on exposure aids in identifying their passions and helps them make informed decisions when selecting a college major or career path. It's a crucial step in personal and academic development.
Moreover, active participation in research demonstrates dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to go beyond the standard curriculum, qualities highly valued by college admissions committees. Admissions officers are often impressed by applicants who have shown initiative and a genuine interest in learning through research experiences. These opportunities can set students apart from their peers and greatly improve their chances of gaining admission to their dream colleges.
Ready to start your own research project?
Apply today!
We're so excited that you're interested in pursuing a path in research. Polygence is an online research academy dedicated to democratizing access to research opportunities for high school students. Whether you are interested in quantitative biology, fashion history, or privacy law, expert Polygence mentors will help you explore your area of interest.