Our Review of the Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program(s) at the University of Illinois for High Schoolers
Joining a STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) research program during high school can be useful when it comes to your college applications. Programs like these provide an opportunity to explore advanced STEMM topics and gain practical research skills—experiences that can set you apart from other applicants.
Colleges look for students who demonstrate curiosity and initiative beyond the classroom, and having a STEMM program on your résumé showcases your dedication to the subject and your readiness for higher education. Additionally, these programs can help you explore potential career options and build strong relationships with mentors and peers. Today, we’ll take a detailed look at one such program: the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program.
What is the Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program?
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program is a six-week, in-person research opportunity exclusively for high school students living in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin. This program, which is part of the Grainger College of Engineering's WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering) initiative, offers students a chance to engage in real-world research projects in STEMM fields while working alongside university faculty and graduate students.
Participants in this program work on real research projects at leading research institutions in Illinois, learning to develop research questions, conduct experiments, and present their results. The program allows you to choose between different research areas, such as energy systems, bioengineering, or neuroscience. By the end of the program, you’ll have improved your critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills while significantly expanding your understanding of STEMM topics.
What is the structure of the program?
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program runs for six weeks, from June 20 to August 2. If selected, you will choose a research project from one of three available Research Groups:
POETS (Power Optimization and Electrothermal Systems): This group focuses on improving battery performance, energy distribution, and power grid efficiency. If you are interested in electrical, computer, mechanical, or materials science engineering, this might be the right choice for you.
SpHERES: This group collaborates with researchers from the Carle-Illinois College of Medicine, focusing on areas such as bioengineering, neuroscience, and medicine. Here you will work closely with both medical professionals and bioengineers.
Grainger Engineering Young Scholars (GEnYuS): Based at the Grainger campus, this group covers a wide range of fields, including computer science, aerospace engineering, quantum physics, and materials science.
No matter which group you join, you’ll be paired with faculty members and work on research projects in your chosen field. Throughout the program, you’ll attend workshops on research methods, professional development, and college admissions. You can expect a 30-35 hour workweek, with regular meetings with mentors to track your progress.
You’ll also gain access to cutting-edge labs, university libraries, and the expertise of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. At the conclusion of the program, you’ll present your research findings at the Young Scholars Symposium.
Is the program prestigious?
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program is highly selective, though participation is limited to students from certain states. Despite this regional restriction, the program is quite competitive because it offers the opportunity to collaborate with top-tier researchers in various STEMM disciplines. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign partners with some of the best research institutions, providing you not only with valuable experience but also with a chance to build a strong professional network. The skills and relationships you develop here can give you a significant edge when applying to colleges.
Who can apply?
To be eligible for the program, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a rising 10th, 11th, or 12th grader at a high school in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, or Wisconsin
Show strong academic performance, particularly in science and math.
Be able to fully commit to the six-week program
How do you apply?
The application process requires the following steps:
Complete an online application form
Submit two personal statement essays
Provide contact information for a teacher, mentor, or counselor to submit an online recommendation
Applications are usually due by late March, with the 2024 deadline set for March 24.
Pros and cons to consider before attending
Pros:
Hands-on research experience at a top institution: You’ll work on real research projects under the guidance of faculty and graduate students, which will give you a head start when transitioning to college-level research.
Expert mentorship: Each participant is paired with a mentor who provides personalized support, helping you develop technical and professional skills that are essential for success in STEMM fields.
Access to advanced facilities and equipment: You’ll work in state-of-the-art labs and use top-tier research equipment, giving you access to technology that’s typically reserved for professionals.
It’s free: The program is fully funded to promote diversity and inclusivity in STEMM research, making it accessible to students who might otherwise not be able to participate.
Cons:
The admissions process is quite selective: Due to its prestige and limited spots, getting into the program can be difficult. If you apply, it’s a good idea to apply to other summer programs as well as there’s no guarantee of getting into this program.
There’s a regional eligibility criterion: Only students from the specific states listed in the eligibility criteria can apply, so if you don’t live in one of those states, you cannot apply.
It’s a significant time commitment: The program runs for six weeks and requires over 30 hours a week, which could interfere with other summer plans like internships or vacations.
Is it legit?
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program is a good opportunity for high school students interested in pursuing a career in STEMM. While the program is geographically limited and requires a significant time commitment, the experience and connections you’ll gain make it a valuable experience for anyone serious about STEMM research.
One other option — the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.