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?
Gencyber Camp
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GenCyber Camp at Rhode Island College offers a free cybersecurity program for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Taking place from July 8–12, with pre-camp activities from June 17–July 5 and post-camp projects from July 15–26, the camp covers topics such as online safety, ethical hacking, programming, and more. Sponsored by the NSA and NSF, it includes in-person, remote, synchronous, and asynchronous activities. Participants receive an Arduino board, camp merchandise, awards, and follow-up events. Application requires completing online activities, an essay, and providing a teacher's contact for a recommendation letter. Additionally, a signed Photo Release Form is needed. Contact Dr. Suzanne Mello-Stark for more information.
YASI Casting Call
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YASI Casting Call is a comprehensive workshop designed for students entering grades 8 through 12, as well as graduated high school seniors, interested in honing their acting audition skills. Spanning five days from July 8 to 12, 2024, the workshop runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily, offering intensive training and guidance. With a limited capacity of up to 20 students, participants receive personalized attention. The workshop covers various aspects of auditioning, focusing notably on the two-monologue theatrical audition format. Students are taught how to effectively perform monologues and short scenes, along with invaluable audition techniques and strategies. They also gain insights into common pitfalls to avoid during auditions. Moreover, the curriculum extends to creating self-tapes for film, television, and commercial auditions, as well as compiling professional resumes and headshots. The highlight of the workshop is a mock audition where each student presents two monologues and receives constructive feedback. Furthermore, participants receive files of their on-camera auditions for future reference. This opportunity provides aspiring young actors with invaluable skills and experiences to excel in auditions, setting them on the path to success in the entertainment industry. Interested individuals can register online for this enriching experience.
YASI Musical Theater
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The YASI Musical Theater program offers an immersive experience for students to develop acting, singing, and dancing skills, embodying the classic triple threat in performing arts. Through exploration of characters and stories, participants engage with words, song, and movement. The program emphasizes the importance of wearing comfortable, movement-ready attire and secure, closed-toe shoes for optimal participation.
Food Science Camp
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The Food Science Camp at Roger Williams University offers a six-day overnight experience for students in grades 10-12. Participants delve into the science behind gastronomy, exploring topics such as microbiology, chemistry, and engineering in a state-of-the-art laboratory. Through hands-on activities and tastings prepared by renowned chefs, students gain insight into the complexities of food preparation and the scientific principles underpinning it. From understanding fermentation and preservation to creating the perfect milkshake, the camp provides a comprehensive immersion into the world of culinary science. Additionally, students get to visit campus gardens and tour a shellfish hatchery, further enriching their understanding of food production. The camp aims to equip participants with both practical cooking skills and a deeper appreciation for the science behind their favorite dishes.
Marine Biology Camp
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The High School Summer Academy in Architecture at Roger Williams University provides rising juniors and seniors with a four-week immersive experience in architectural studies, earning three college credits. Through studio work, seminars, field trips, and extracurricular activities, students delve into basic architectural principles, digital drawing, modeling techniques, and contemporary practices. They receive guidance on the college admissions process and portfolio development, and have opportunities to collaborate with faculty and current students. Open to international students and U.S. residents who have completed their sophomore or junior year, the program requires an application including a high school transcript and one letter of reference.
Summer Academy in Architecture
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The High School Summer Academy in Architecture at Roger Williams University provides rising juniors and seniors with a four-week immersive experience in architectural studies, earning three college credits. Through studio work, seminars, field trips, and extracurricular activities, students delve into basic architectural principles, digital drawing, modeling techniques, and contemporary practices. They receive guidance on the college admissions process and portfolio development, and have opportunities to collaborate with faculty and current students. Open to international students and U.S. residents who have completed their sophomore or junior year, the program requires an application including a high school transcript and one letter of reference.
Brown Summer High School
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Brown Summer High School is a selective summer enrichment program at Brown University for 150-200 motivated students from Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Students explore their interests in English, math, science, and social studies with a focus on equity and justice. Led by Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) candidates, courses emphasize collaboration, discussion, and creative projects. Participants engage in hands-on learning and attend assemblies on college preparation. Priority enrollment is for students from Providence and Central Falls, entering grades 9-12. The program runs weekdays in July, with two classes per student. Attendance at all sessions is required. BSHS is free, and some schools offer credit for participation. Applications are reviewed in spring, requiring an online form, parental signature, and short essay. Confirmations are sent in mid-June. Contact via email or phone for more information.
RISD Advanced Program Online
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RISD's Advanced Program Online offers intensive, collegiate-level courses for creative high school students aged 15-18. Founded in 1877, Rhode Island School of Design is renowned for its art and design education. The program emphasizes innovation, encouraging students to challenge traditional approaches and explore new territories in art and design. Participants engage in live and recorded sessions over four-week sessions in spring and summer, gaining insights into portfolio development, critical thinking, and artistic expression. Designed for aspiring artists and designers, the program fosters a flexible mindset and provides valuable experiences that can shape future pursuits in higher education and beyond.
Residential Summer Immersive
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RISD Pre-College offers a transformative five-week experience for rising high school juniors and seniors, immersing them in a college-level curriculum focused on art and design. Participants engage in day-long studio classes, critiques, and projects, fostering collaboration and creativity alongside peers from diverse backgrounds. Led by experienced instructors, students access RISD's renowned resources, strengthening their portfolios and refining their artistic skills. With a focus on personal growth and exploration, the program empowers students to challenge themselves and approach art and design with confidence. Through a blend of rigorous academics and immersive student life, RISD Pre-College prepares students for the next step in their creative journey while shaping their perspectives on art and design.
Think Summer
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Think Summer at Albuquerque Academy offers an extensive summer program from June 10 to July 19, 2024, catering to students from pre-K to 12th grade. With a focus on safety, quality, and value, the program provides diverse academic and recreational options, ensuring engagement and growth for all participants. From full-day programs to individual classes and extended care services, families have flexible scheduling choices. The curriculum emphasizes active-learning strategies, project-based activities, and interdisciplinary courses, fostering curiosity and enthusiasm in students. Opportunities for employment exist for local students as camp counselors and teacher assistants, with hiring beginning in winter. Faculty are encouraged to bring creative teaching techniques to the relaxed summer environment. Overall, Think Summer aims to provide a dynamic, fun-filled educational experience that reinforces academic concepts and promotes personal development in a nurturing environment.
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.