TeenLife 2023 Your Future In STEM Guide

YOUR FUTURE IN STEM 

2023 

INSIDE: 

WHAT AR/VR MEANS 

FOR TECH JOBS 

GETTING INVOLVED IN 

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH 

SUMMER PROGRAM 

LISTINGS 

PURSUE YOUR 

PASSION FOR 

STEM 

2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM 1 

A TeenLife Media Publication | www.teenlife.com

Programs for Students Rising 6th Grade - Entering College 

- SCIENCE I BUSINESS I ENGINEERING I MEDICINE - 

Biomedical & Surgical Research • Forensics • Biotech • Psychology • 

Veterinary Medicine• Architecture • Electronics & Robotics •Astrophysics• 

Marine Biology • Emergency Medicine • Investment Banking • Surgery 

www.BostonLeadershiplnstitute.com

2021 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM 1 

2021 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In Arts 1 

A TeenLife Media Publication | www.teenlife.com 

FOUNDER & CEO 

Marie Schwartz 

mschwartz@teenlife.com 

PUBLISHER 

Dustin Silvaer 

dustin@teenlife.com 

EDITOR 

Janice Haller 

janice@teenlife.com 

PRESENTING 

YOUR FUTURE 

IN STEM 

Marie Schwartz 

CEO & Founder 

TeenLife Media, LLC 

ADVERTISING SALES 

Brenda Boos 

brenda@teenlife.com 

Jen Fisher 

jen@teenlife.com 


ach year, it seems like there are new advances in the world of STEM. 

Whether it’s the cosmic expanse or the inner workings of our minds, we 

are a step closer to understanding the world and how to make it better. 

The amazing technology that is a part of our daily lives show us how far 

we have come. In one generation, we accelerated from the first computers and 

the “Turing Test” to powerful handheld computing and A.I chatbots that force 

us to question what is science fiction and what is reality. 

You are a part of the generation that will see the most astounding changes to 

the landscape of science and technology. One of the many steps you will take 

to get there is to broaden your horizons beyond the classroom. Our latest Your 

Future In STEM Guide will highlight the opportunities that can turn dreams and 

visions into a reality, just like the great scientists before. 

INSIDE: 

WHAT AR/VR MEANS 

FOR TECH JOBS 

GETTING INVOLVED IN 

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH 

SUMMER PROGRAM 

LISTINGS 


PURSUE YOUR 

PASSION FOR 


We encourage you to continue to test the limits, ask questions, and to accept 

that failure is an inherent part of success. You are the future of STEM; we want 

to help you make a difference. 

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS? 

Email me at mschwartz@teenlife.com 


To download a PDF of 

this guide, go to: 

www.teenlife.com/yfi-stem/ 

Welcome to “Your Future in STEM!” This 

digital guide strives to help students 

learn more about careers in specific 

career clusters, as well as the best ways 

to prepare themselves during high school 

and college for well-paying careers of the 

future! Please let us know if you have any 

questions or suggestions to make this 

resource as helpful as possible. 

Other 

publications in 

this series: 

INSIDE: 

TIPS FOR 

PURSUING A 

MUSIC CAREER 

TOP-PAYING 

ARTS CAREERS 

SUMMER 

PROGRAM AND 

ARTS COLLEGE 

LISTINGS 

USEFUL LINKS 

YOUR FUTURE IN ARTS 


BUILDING A 

FOUNDATION 

FOR SUCCESS IN 

ARTS 

2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM 1


WHAT’S INSIDE 

Your Future in STEM: What Can You Earn? ......................................................................... 4 

iD Tech Student Testimonial ......................................................................................................... 7 

Boston Leadership Institute Student Testimonial ........................................................... 8 

STEM Summer Programs ............................................................................................................. 11 

STEM Colleges .................................................................................................................................... 22 

STEM After School Enrichment ................................................................................................ 24 

AR/VR Technology: What Does it Mean for Tech Jobs ..................................................27 

How to Get Involved in Scientific Research ........................................................................29 

UC San Diego Research Scholars Student Testimonial ...............................................32 

Quinnipiac University Student Testimonial .......................................................................33 

2 

2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM

Learn from the best. 

Become your best. 

Spend your summer with iD Tech. 

STEM summer camps 

held at 75+ prestigious 

campuses, including: 

• UC Irvine 

• UW Seattle 

• Princeton 

• Rice University 

• UCLA 

• Emory University 

• University of Michigan 

• Bentley University 

• Caltech 

Your most legendary 

summer ever starts at 

iDTech.com! 

Year-round virtual 

programs also available!

Your Future In STEM: 

WHAT CAN YOU EARN? 

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 

very year, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics 

publishes data related to job trends across 

a number of different industries. This data 

includes information on occupation growth, 

the minimum level of education required for 

certain jobs and the annual median earnings 

for workers in a specific field. If you’re looking 

forward to a career in STEM, there’s good news. According 

to the latest Labor Statistics report, jobs in computer and 

information technology are expected to grow 15% between 

2021 and 2031, one of the fastest rates of growth across all 

industries. Employment in engineering fields is also expected 

to grow, at a slower rate of 4% over the next ten years. Even 

at this average growth rate however, nearly 100,000 jobs are 

expected to be added in the engineering industry in the next 

decade. Many of these new positions will be in the robotics 

industry, as more and more parts of the industrial economy 

become automated or machine-aided. Rapid job growth is 

also expected in other STEM fields like oil and gas extraction, 

cloud computing and information security. As of May 2021, 

the median annual salary for workers in the computer and 

information technology industry was $97,430. The median 

annual wage in the engineering and architecture industry 

was $79,840. Both of these figures are significantly higher 

than the overall median wage across all industries, which 

comes in at $45,760. Take a look at the selected jobs below, 

and see what you could earn in STEM! 

4 


MEDIAN ANNUAL WAGES FOR SELECTED STEM OCCUPATIONS 

OCCUPATION 

JOB 

SUMMARY 

ENTRY LEVEL 

EDUCATION 

2020 

MEDIAN PAY 

AEROSPACE 

ENGINEERS 

Aerospace engineers design primarily aircraft, 

spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. 

Bachelor’s Degree $122,270 

AGRICULTURAL 

ENGINEERS 

Agricultural engineers solve problems concerning power 

supplies, machine efficiency, the use of structures and 

facilities, pollution and environmental issues, and the 

storage and processing of agricultural products. 


BIOMEDICAL 

ENGINEERS 

Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine 

engineering principles with sciences to design and 

create equipment, devices, computer systems, and 

software. 


CHEMICAL 

ENGINEERS 

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, 

biology, physics, and math to solve problems that 

involve the use of fuel, drugs, food, and many other 

products. 


COMPUTER 

NETWORK 

ARCHITECTS 

Computer network architects design and build 

data communication networks, including local area 

networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and 

Intranets. 


COMPUTER 

PROGRAMMERS 

Computer programmers write and test code that 

allows computer applications and software programs 

to function properly. 


DRAFTERS 

Drafters use software to convert the designs of 

engineers and architects into technical drawings. 

Associate’s Degree $60,290 

INFORMATION 

SECURITY ANALYST 

Information security analysts plan and carry out 

security measures to protect an organization’s 

computer networks and systems. 


NUCLEAR 

ENGINEERS 

Nuclear engineers research and develop the processes, 

instruments, and systems used to derive benefits from 

nuclear energy and radiation. 


SURVEYING 

AND MAPPING 

TECHNICIANS 

Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and 

make maps of the Earth’s surface. 

High School Diploma 

or Equivalent 

$46,910 

WEB DEVELOPERS 

AND DIGITAL 

DESIGNERS 

Web developers create and maintain websites. 

Digital designers develop, create, and test website 

or interface layout, functions, and navigation for 

usability. 



Session I 

July 7 - July 19, 2024 

Session II 

July 21 - August 2, 2024 

Explore Academic Programs In: 

Architecture 

Business and 

Entrepreneurship 

Computer Science 

Cybersecurity 

Engineering 

Industrial + Interior Design 

Robotics + More 

Learn More! 

Learn more at wit.edu/impactlab

STUDENT 

TESTIMONIAL: 

Collin Mackett 

GAMEPLAY ENGINEER 

AND FORMER 

ID TECH CAMPER 

How did you turn your love of gaming into a 

career in the software industry? 

I got my start in coding as a camper at iD Tech 

during my freshman and sophomore years 

in high school. I attended summer camps at 

Carnegie Mellon University, first taking a course 

in Level Design before returning the following 

summer for a course in Unreal Engine 3. They 

were both such awesome experiences that I 

ended up coming back as an iD Tech instructor 

at summer camp in 2013. 

What role did iD Tech play in your career 

journey? 

To me, iD Tech is more than a camp—it’s a 

major part of my pathway from starting as a 

high school student that was passionate about 

games, to going into college for computer 

science, and eventually becoming a developer in 

the gaming industry. My time at iD Tech inspired 

me to pick computer science as my major in 

college, which I did for all four years. After that, 

I ended up going to grad school for video game 

programming as well. 

In my professional career, I started as an intern 

at Madden and eventually grew into a full-time 

role. During my four years there, I worked on the 

Gameplay team and helped with the creation 

of Madden 16-19. In my next role, I worked for 

a studio called GameSim, where I was able to 

work on several awesome projects. Currently, I 

work at Ubisoft Red Storm as a Senior Gameplay 

Engineer. I have been with this company for two 

years now, working on Assassin’s Creed VR. 

What is your favorite part about your career? 

I really like being a gameplay engineer. There’s just something 

awesome about taking a design from a prototype to trying it out 

to making it into a full feature that is really inspiring to me. It’s the 

biggest part of making a game. It’s the back of the box features—it’s 

what people get to play and get their hands on. And to say that I’ve 

worked on that is really rewarding. 

What do you think is in store for the future of the STEM and 

tech industry? 

I think as we keep going forward, kids are going to be taking coding 

classes the way that you would take Spanish or any other foreign 

language. You’re going to be learning this new language, which 

it really is—it’s learning to speak with your computer. I think one 

of the most exciting things about the gaming industry is how fast 

it changes and how fast it grows. Just in my lifetime alone, I can 

remember playing on Nintendo, then Super Nintendo, and what the 

graphics look like then to what they are now that we’re getting into 

4K, which is exploring massive universes. The tech industry is only 

going to continue its growth. 


STUDENT 

TESTIMONIAL: 

Bryanah Houstin 

BOSTON LEADERSHIP 

INSTITUTE: INTRO TO 

SURGERY 

I took Intro to Surgery, described by BLI as a 

one-week medical program that introduces 

students to basic surgical skills, such as surgical 

knot tying and suturing. It allows us to translate 

these skills to mock surgeries. Students focus 

on cardiovascular disease, including coronary 

artery bypass grafting. Students additionally 

complete, in groups, a slideshow presentation 

involving cardiothoracic diseases and their 

surgical treatments. They will then practice 

their presenting skills as they present their work 

to the rest of the class. They learn skills that 

will aid them in the process of applying to and 

succeeding in pre-med and medical programs in 

their futures. 

During my time attending the BLI Intro to 

Surgery program, I feel that it impacted me 

in many ways. I learned skills early on that I 

otherwise would have had to learn further in 

my academic career. I was taught verbal study 

hacks by my amazing instructors. These helped 

me not only remember the materials better but 

also how to be more attentive. Overall, I learned 

skills that will help me down the road to further 

my education and lead me to be the surgeon I 

one day hope to become. I was able to perform 

mock surgeries such as a gastric bypass and a 

CABG as well as learn and apply many different 

suture technics that I still practice today. I was 

also taught the proper way to check someone’s 

blood pressure. 

This skill enabled me to be able to check my 

dad’s blood pressure when needed, which I 

was unable to do prior to my BLI experience. 

Being involved in hands-on learning helped me understand and 

physically see what I was learning to prepare me for the work I will 

be executing in the future. Apart from the medical skills I took part 

in, I learned how to be a leader and the importance of collaboration 

skills. I learned how to work together when in groups/duos and 

listen to other people’s thoughts and ideas. I gained the ability to 

better my public speaking when presenting my own ideas to my 

peers. All in all, I learned leadership skills that I now apply to my 

everyday life. I am involved in multiple clubs at my school, some of 

which I lead to excel in the community and accomplish great goals. I 

am forever grateful and blessed that I had the opportunity to learn 

such amazing things at BLI. 

8 



EXPLO Pre-College 

World Class STEM Programs 

Residential. College credit available. 

Medicine | Neuro | AI | Engineering | CSI 

Lab Visits + Tours 

www.explo.org 


Scan the QR code to connect 

with the programs in this guide! 

STEM SUMMER 

PROGRAMS 

ACADIA INSTITUTE: ADVANCED MARINE SCIENCE CAMP PROGRAM | View Website 

$3,150 

10th, 11th, 12th 

In-Person 

2 Weeks 

The Advanced Sessions are pre-college courses offered to students age 15-19 who have 

completed one year of high school science, preferably biology or chemistry (though these 

are not required). These two-week sessions are of a more analytical nature, and students 

are expected to prepare laboratory reports and analysis of their field work. We offer 

students the chance to explore their collegiate options during the advanced sessions with 

college tours and discussions on internships to high school and college age students. 

Learn more » 

ADELPHI UNIVERSITY SUMMER PRE COLLEGE: COMPUTER SCIENCE AND CODING 

View Website 

$3,000 - $5,200 

11th, 12th 


20 days 

Adelphi offers a Summer Pre-College program for Computer Science and Coding where 

you can learn to design and analyze software-based systems. It prepares students to 

effectively embrace modern information technology throughout their academic and 

professional career. Students will explore how computers work, how to effectively use 

computer operating system, explore contemporary applications and discover state-ofthe-art 

technology. It’s an exciting way for rising juniors and seniors in high school to 

gain valuable college experience while earning college credit. Learn more » 


STEM SUMMER PROGRAMS (continued...) 

www.teenlife.com/request-yfi-stem 

BOSTON ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGE: ON-SITE & VIRTUAL SUMMER ACADEMY 

View Website 

$1,500 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

In-Person & Online 

4 Weeks 

The Boston Architectural College’s (BAC) Summer Academy is designed for high school 

students curious about starting a career in architecture, interior design, landscape 

design, urban design/planning, and more. The BAC’s Early College Program helps 

students study design with leading professionals and peers from around the globe. 

Students around the world (grades 9–12) are welcome to participate in this hands-on 

summer program. No design experience required! Offered onsite and virtually, learn 

more about how YOU can launch a future in design. Learn more » 

BOSTON LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE: STEM (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, 

MATH) SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website 

$500 - $1,499 

8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 

12th, PG, College 


1 or 3 Weeks 

BLI is a summer STEM program for teens with campuses in Wellesley, Waltham, and 

Boston. Three-week programs are competitive admissions research programs that provide 

excellent credentials for college applications. One-week programs are introductory 

and hands-on. Programs are available in Science, Medicine, Engineering, and Business. 

Residential and day options are available. Popular programs include Biomedical & Surgical 

Research, Astrophysics, Electronics & Robotics, Anatomy, Marine Biology, and many more! 

We’re known for also running Remote Biotech Research, Remote Biomedical & Surgical 

Research, and Remote STEM Entrepreneurship. We send kits with all the supplies. 

Learn more » 

BROWN PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS: STEM PROGRAMS | View Website 

$3,871-$4,987 

8th, 9th 


2 Weeks 

If your idea of summer fun is a deep-dive into the STEM fields, this is the program for 

you. Join other rising 9th and 10th graders who are as passionate about advancing their 

knowledge of the STEM disciplines as you are for two weeks of hands-on team research 

projects, experiments and design-build challenges. Focus on STEM interests, and prepare 

for success in a rigorous academic environment. Work closely with peers on research 

projects, experiments, or design-build challenges. Live and learn at Brown with other 

motivated students from around the world. Learn more » 

CAMP INTEGEM: HOLOGRAPHIC AR CODING, AI, ROBOTICS, ART, ANIMATION & 

3D DESIGN | View Website 

$599-$2,999 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th, College 


1 Week - 1 Year 

The #1 AR Program is fully accredited and offers school credits! Excellent precollege classes, 

AP classes, Tech Leadership programs for cutting-edge portfolio for college applications. 

K-12 students delve into exciting holographic AR coding, AI, robotics, STEM, 3D, arts, design, 

game design, UI/UX, animation, and more. Turn your imagination into reality and Teleport 

into your creation to experience the magic. No prior experience is needed. Since 2018, we’ve 

taught thousands of students from more than 20 countries. Learn more » 

12 




CASE WESTERN RESERVE PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM | View Website 

$995 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

Online 

2 or 4 Weeks 

Case Western Reserve University’s pre-college program offers online courses in 

Astrophysics/Evolutionary Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, and Neuroscience/ 

Medicine for high school students. You’ll learn from CWRU instructors, receive expert 

mentorship throughout the course, and earn a Certificate of Completion. The program 

offers courses that are 100% online so you can complete the course whenever your 

schedule allows. Experience engaging recorded video lessons, unit assignments, and a 

final project to showcase all you’ve learned. Learn more » 

CHAMPLAIN PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website 

$4,500 

10th, 11th, 12th 


12 Days 

Interested in Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics? Audio Engineering? Digital Media 

Production? Game Development? Explore what it takes to be an innovator alongside 

other motivated students. Located in Burlington, Vermont, one of the Best College Towns 

in the US, Champlain’s industry-expert faculty work with students in some of the most 

exciting areas of study. Our hands-on learning model, in state-of-the-art labs, provides 

students with the opportunity to develop tangible skills and portfolio work in these highly 

desirable fields. Space is limited. Learn more » 

CIEE: CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION IN MONTEVERDE, COSTA RICA | View Website 

$5,050 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


3 Weeks 

Discover the impact of climate change on tropical ecosystems as you explore the 

Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica and meet with local farmers, scientists, 

and activists. Quantify tropical tree growth, estimate carbon stocks, and measure 

environmental effects of greenhouse gasses in the living laboratory that is the CIEE 

Monteverde eco-campus. On an excursion, hike through the deep forest to El Tigre 

waterfalls or spend a weekend in the Río Celeste area with its volcano and magical 

turquoise river. Learn more » 

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY: SHAPE SUMMER HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC PROGRAM 

FOR ENGINEERS | View Website 

$4,900 

10th, 11th, 12th 


3 Weeks 

Columbia Engineering’s Summer High School Academic Program for Engineers (SHAPE) is a 

selective pre-college program for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors. SHAPE is geared 

toward students with an aptitude for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics 

(STEM). Each 3-week session offers college-level, project-based courses in multiple areas 

of engineering taught by prestigious faculty members at Columbia University. Students 

choose electives and workshops with topics ranging from career exploration to how to 

improve one’s college application. Learn more » 




ENGINEERING SUMMER ACADEMY AT PENN | View Website 

>$3,000 

10th, 11th, 12th 


3 Weeks 

ESAP welcomes highly motivated and talented students to explore college-level 

engineering. Our intensive, three-week program combines sophisticated theory with 

hands-on practical experience in cutting edge technologies. Work with leading faculty 

while earning college credit, live on Penn’s historic campus, and connect with new friends 

from around the world. Students can choose from one of these six courses offered: 

Biotechnology, Computer Graphics, Computer Science, Networks, Nanotechnology or 

Robotics. Learn more » 

EXPLO PRE-COLLEGE + STEM | View Website 

$7,350 

10th, 11th, 12th 


3 Weeks 

Spend your summer in the nation’s STEM innovation hub. At EXPLO Pre-College, you’ll 

immerse yourself in world class STEM courses with students from across the globe. Dive into 

projects and labs. You’ll do the authentic work of the profession, receive real-time mentoring 

and feedback from experts, and start building the social and professional networks that will 

serve you well into the future. College credit available. Lab visits and tours of MIT, Harvard, 

Northeastern, Boston University. Learn more » 

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY PRE-COLLEGE ONLINE PROGRAM | View Website 

$1,495 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

Online 

Varies 

Are you good at science? Curious about the different career paths you can take in the fields 

of tech, engineering, or medicine? Georgetown University’s pre-college online STEM courses 

offer the perfect way to get a head start on your college education and potentially your 

future. Learn with acclaimed Georgetown University professors and even gain insights from 

experts in your field of interest. If you are thinking about a future in STEM, we can help you 

find your fit. Learn more » 

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY SUMMER 1-WEEK MEDICAL ACADEMY | View Website 

$2,500-$3,225 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


1 Week 

Georgetown’s Summer High School Science and Medical Programs explore the fascinating 

world of modern medicine through hands-on instruction from Georgetown’s Medical 

Center. These immersive experiences combine engaging lectures with hands-on activities 

that introduce you to the rigors of the medical school curriculum. Whether you’re 

interested in pursuing a career as a medical professional or discovering the world of 

criminalistics, Georgetown has a program that will enable you to get a head start on 

exploring your interests and discovering your passions. Learn more » 

14 




HARVARD SUMMER SCHOOL | View Website 

Varies 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


Harvard Summer School is your chance to immerse yourself in a world-class academic 

experience. Learn from leading academics and share classes and activities with bright 

students from around the world, all while adding Harvard to your college applications. 

Discover what a Harvard Summer experience can do for your future. Learn more » 

2 or 7 Weeks 

iD TECH CAMPS FOR KIDS AND TEENS | View Website 

$500 - $1,499 

Below 6th, 6th, 7th, 

8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 

12th 


World’s #1 tech camp for 23+ years! iD Tech camps were built with teens’ interests in mind 

and provide the opportunity to explore their dream campus, meet like-minded friends, 

learn in-demand skills, and build narratives for college apps – while having the time of 

their lives! Locations at 75+ university campuses across the US + online options 

Learn more » 

1 Week 

ILLINOIS TECH ONLINE PRECOLLEGE STEM PROGRAMS | View Website 

Varies 

6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 

10th, 11th, 12th 


1 - 3 Weeks 

Elevate your future at Chicago’s only comprehensive tech university—Illinois Tech! Gain 

hands-on experience in our in-person and online Elevate College Prep programs. Explore 

game design and development, cybersecurity, computing and technology, architecture, 

chemistry, biology, design thinking, and more. All courses are taught by faculty and no 

prior experience is necessary! Learn more » 

IMPERIAL GLOBAL SUMMER SCHOOL | View Website 

£6,175 

10th, 11th and 12th 


2 Weeks 

Imperial Global Summer School is a two-week residential programme, specifically 

designed for 16–17-year-olds with a passion for science, technology, engineering and 

medicine. Taught by Imperial academics, the programme offers students a unique 

opportunity to develop their subject knowledge and gain practical skills alongside like 

minded students, while adding weight to their future university applications. 

Programme runs in July and August 2024. Learn more » 




LMU PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS EXPLORING ENGINEERING | View Website 

$9,500 

11th 


4 Weeks 

This course seeks to establish a solid foundation of technical, creative, team work, and 

communication skills for future engineers through effective problem solving, analysis, 

and design techniques. Practical computer applications are integrated as tools to solve 

engineering problems through group work. The course introduces the use of manual 

and computer graphics in engineering design. Students earn college credit on successful 

completion. Students must be rising seniors to apply. Learn more » 

OXFORD ROYALE SUMMER SCHOOLS AT TOP UNIVERSITIES | View Website 

>$5,000 

8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th 


2 Weeks 

Oxford Royale is the perfect choice for your summer STEM programme. Subjects include 

Engineering & Technology, Medicine for the 13-15 and 16-18 age groups, and Mathematics 

for older teens. The inspirational atmosphere of our locations at the world’s top universities 

is not to be missed. Expand your global network and your cultural outlook, learn from our 

expert faculty, and develop key academic and life skills for your university applications. 

Get inspired and motivated for a future career in STEM. Learn more » 

PATHWAYS TO STEM CELL SCIENCE | View Website 

$999 - $7,500 

5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


1 - 8 Weeks 

This is a unique non-profit biotech-based education and research institute located in 

Los Angeles, California.Our mission is to “inspire, guide and prepare students for future 

bioscience careers, with an emphasis on the cutting edge fields of stem cell biology and 

regenerative medicine”. Learn cutting-edge science from renowned industry scientists 

who are also exceptional teachers. Learn in a real lab working hands-on with actual stem 

cells. They help students prepare for advanced science education, workplace internships 

& professional science careers by building passion, confidence & universally applicable 

lab skills. Learn more » 

PURDUE GIFTED EDUCATION RESEARCH AND RESOURCE INSTITUTE’S 

SUMMER RESIDENTIAL CAMP | View Website 

$2,500 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th 


2 Weeks 

Every summer, for over 40 years, Purdue GER 2 I has engaged gifted, creative, and talented 

students from across the country and around the world in our Summer Residential 

Camps designed to stimulate imaginations and expand abilities. Fifth through 12th grade 

students live in our residence halls, take challenging courses, and participate in engaging 

recreational activities. Purdue’s excellence in high-tech STEM fields is world-renowned-- 

from amazing astronauts to superpowered semiconductors! So take your “next giant leap” 

and hang out with us in July! Learn more » 

16 




QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY SUMMER PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS | View Website 

$1,200 - $3,360 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th 


1 or 2 Weeks 

Summer is the best time to accelerate progress toward achieving your academic, 

professional and personal goals. This is why Quinnipiac University is offering a growing 

list of engaging summer programs, camps, undergraduate courses and more. All are 

designed to help a diverse group of people of all ages explore their passions while 

supported by our faculty, staff and students across all 8 schools and the College of 

Arts and Sciences. Learn more » 

REACH CAMBRIDGE SUMMER SCHOOL - STEM | View Website 

£5,995+ 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


2, 4 or 6 Weeks 

Experience the wonders of STEM at the Reach Cambridge Residential Summer School! 

Our STEM course is your gateway to the world of Science. This residential summer school 

program combines hands-on learning with theoretical knowledge allowing you to gain a 

solid foundation for your future with cutting-edge innovations and the world of research 

and development. The program will fuel your curiosity and inspire. Join us in the academic 

home of Newton, Darwin, Hawking, and more, guided by professionals of their field. 

Learn more » 

RICE UNIVERSITY PRECOLLEGE PROGRAM | View Website 

$1,195 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

Online 

Varies 

Are you hoping to test out a subject before college? Rice has an exciting opportunity 

for motivated high school students like you. Experience learning from top Rice professors 

through engaging, tech-forward videos and demonstrations; and collaborate with in-theknow 

mentors. Work at your own pace and earn a Certificate of Completion from Rice 

University. Learn more » 

ROSETTA INSTITUTE: BIOMEDICAL CAMPS | View Website 



SCIENCE CAMPS OF AMERICA FOR TEENS | View Website 

$2,795 

8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 

12th 


10 Days 

Get outside to study the volcanoes, rocks, streams, forests, ocean and sky of the Big 

Island of Hawaii. Learn science by experiencing it first hand, up-close and personal. 

Great summer programs for teens ages 13-17, international students welcome. Our 

programs take place July 1-10 and July 11-20. in the beautiful Hawaii, for students in 

grades 8-12. At Land and Sea Camp campers engage with volcanoes (geology), the ocean 

(oceanography), the forest (biology, zoology), and the environment. At Air and Space 

Camp you will have opportunities to learn about Earth’s atmosphere, about climate, 

and about astronomy, and about space exploration. The Big Island of Hawaii is the ideal 

location for experiencing the air and space sciences. Join us! Learn more » 

SEA HIGH SCHOOL & GAP PROGRAMS | View Website 

$5,400-$5,800 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 

College, PG 


2 or 3 Weeks 

SEA offers ocean-focused summer and gap year programs for students who want to: 

explore today’s most critical marine conservation topics; conduct field-based research; 

learn to sail tall ships. SEA offers 2 and 3-week summer programs on shore, at sea, and 

online for current high school students and recent graduates. SEA also offers credit 

and non-credit bearing gap year programs on shore in the oceanographic research 

community of Woods Hole, MA and at sea on the sailing research vessel SSV Seamans. 

Learn more » 

STANFORD VIRTUAL CLINICAL ANATOMY SUMMER PROGRAM (CASP) | View Website 

$3,000 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

Online 

1 Week 

The Virtual Clinical Anatomy Summer Program (Virtual CASP) at Stanford University is 

for high school students considering careers in medical and health-related fields, such 

as medicine, surgery, dentistry, EMT/paramedics, nursing, biomedical engineering, 

occupational therapy, physical therapy, sports medicine, and medical education. This 

course will introduce students to the anatomy of the human body. Students will attend 

lectures given by Stanford Medicine faculty, engage in virtual anatomy demonstrations, 

and explore how VR technology is used to teach and learn anatomy. Learn more » 

STEM EXPLORATIONS – MONTREAL ON THE CAMPUS OF MCGILL | View Website 

$5,299 or $6,599 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


2 or 3 Weeks 

Facilitated by McGill faculty and industry professionals, high school students can explore 

the world of STEM with interactive classes, hands-on experiments, industry guest 

speakers and site visits. Discover real-life applications of biology, chemistry, physics 

and mathematics, while gaining a better understanding of what you can do with a 

STEM education and what career path you want to pursue! While living in Montreal and 

experiencing college life, this program blends academic enrichment and personal growth 

to create the ultimate summer experience. Learn more » 

18 




TEACH ME WALL STREET: VIRTUAL BLOCKCHAIN & CRYPTOCURRENCY BOOT CAMP 

View Website 



UMASS AMHERST PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website 

$3,454 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


1 - 6 Weeks 

Join UMass Amherst’s Summer Pre-College program and experience the advantage of 

studying STEM at a major R1 university. Offering online and in-person options at UMass 

Amherst and the UMass Mount Ida campus in the greater Boston area. Students will learn 

from UMass faculty and graduate students, exploring their academic interests and building 

skills for college. Sessions range from 2 to 6 weeks in length. Topics include engineering, 

architecture, anthropology, veterinary medicine, astronomy, kinesiology, lab research, and 

more. Learn more » 

UNCW MARINEQUEST | View Website 

Varies 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th 


1 - 3 Weeks 

Dive into Marine Science with UNCW MarineQuest! Discover the world of modern marine 

science while exploring beautiful coastal habitats with our university-based summer 

academic enrichment programs. Start developing the skills and tools you will need in a 

modern marine science career by participating in laboratory and field-based research 

activities while enjoying a variety of water sports including surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, 

boogie boarding, and scuba. Begin your marine science adventure--apply today! 

Learn more » 

UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY SUMMER STEM | View Website 

$800 

9th, 10th, 11th 


1 Week 

The United States Naval Summer STEM program is a residential program designed to 

encourage rising 9th-11th grades to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering, 

and mathematics. For one week, campers will create, build, and explore in USNA’s world 

class lab facilities while experiencing real-life applications and learning at one of the “Top 

5 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” in the country as ranked by U.S. News and 

World Report. Summer STEM 2024 applications open January, 2024. Learn more » 

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER PRE-COLLEGE ONLINE PROGRAM | View Website 

$995 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 

Online 

2 or 4 Weeks 

If you have a passion for STEM, explore these fields with one of the world’s leading 

research universities. The University of Rochester offers engaging online courses in 

subjects like medicine, biomedical engineering, video game design, and more for high 

school students ages 13 and up. Each course features engaging video by Rochester 

faculty and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online 

format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. Learn more » 

20 




UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO ENGINEERING OUTREACH PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER 

PROGRAMS | View Website 

$600+ 

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th 


1 Week to 6 Weeks 

Engineering Outreach is dedicated to inspiring bright young minds from with a wide spectrum 

of pre-university STEM programs. Discover our offerings for elementary, high school, 

Indigenous students, and initiatives breaking barriers in education. Pre-University Outreach is 

a set of programs sponsored or supported by the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering 

at the University of Toronto that connects our current students and faculty with members of 

the community. Learn more » 

WENTWORTH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY’S PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM: IMPACTLAB 

View Website 

$3,495 

10th, 11th, 12th 


2 Weeks 

ImpactLab is an innovative two-week residential summer experience for rising juniors 

and seniors in high school. This hands-on program will give students a chance to explore 

their passions in science, engineering, and design. Program highlights include: getting to 

know like-minded peers from around the globe as you preview college life, experiencing 

our beautiful Boston campus and all this city has to offer, and learning alongside our 

engaging faculty using our state-of-the-art studios and labs. Learn more » 

WORLD SCHOLARS ACADEMY | STEM SUMMER COURSES | View Website 

$2,495 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th 

Online 

2 Weeks 

World Scholars Academy offers elite online summer courses and internships in 

Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Medicine. Programs are led exclusively 

by world-leading scholars from top universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, and 

feature guest interviews with distinguished practitioners. Discover your highest career 

path and accelerate your success with personalized college guidance, advanced study skill 

acquisition, and high-level instruction from the world’s most accomplished educators. 

Opportunities available for aspiring scholars ages 12-18. Learn more » 

YALE YOUNG GLOBAL SCHOLARS | View Website 

$6,500 

10th, 11th 


2 Weeks 

Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) invites students to attend our two-week summer program 

at Yale, where participants experience university life, explore cutting-edge topics in academia, 

and forge friendships from around the globe. Our program offers academic tracks in a variety 

of different fields, including a STEM session called Innovations of Science & Technology. YYGS 

offers $3 Million in need-based financial aid to U.S. domestic and international students. 

Apply by January 10, 2024 Learn more » 



COLLEGES 

PRINCIPIA COLLEGE: STEM | View Website 

$46,650 

Private 

Elsah, IL 

Biology 

Principia is for the thinkers, the makers, the designers, and discoverers. From our top 

performing solar car to our career-ready internship program, this is the place to prepare to 

change the world. Here you can conduct original research, analyze results, take your skills to 

the next level, and gain real-world experience in high-tech fields. If you’re a builder, inventor, 

thinker, or doer—if you’re ready to ask the big questions and produce the next big answer— 

come find yourself here. Learn more » 

JOIN CANADA’S #1 ENGINEERING SCHOOL 

Great ideas are just the beginning — 

we help make them a reality. When 

you choose U of T Engineering, you 

are choosing an education that goes 

beyond the classroom. 

Learn more about our unique 

program offerings, PEY Co-Op, 

pre-university summer learning 

opportunities and why we’re a great 

place to launch your future. 

Learn More: 

uofteng.ca/discover



Find innovation 

Find challenge 

Find yourself here 

Principia is for the thinkers and the makers. 

The designers and the discoverers. From our 

top performing solar car to our career-ready 

internship program, this is the place to prepare 

to change the world. 

If you’re a builder, an inventor, a thinker, or a 

doer—if you’re ready to ask the big questions 

and produce the next big answer—come find 

yourself here 

Principia alumni are founding AI 

startups, building products for Google, 

and launching the next generation of 

spacecraft. 

What can a Principia College degree 

do for you? 

Unlock your creative potential 

at Principia College.




AFTER SCHOOL 

ENRICHMENT 

LAUREATE CERTIFICATION IN ADVANCED SCIENCE RESEARCH WRITING 

View Website 

$895 

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 

11th, 12th, College 

Online 

10 Weeks 

For the first time in history, Nobel Prize Winners have come together to certify dedicated high 

school STEM students in science research writing and formally recognize their outstanding 

achievement. This intensive 10-week course consists of self-paced modules covering all 

aspects of documenting a research project and creating a professional-grade research paper. 

Upon successful completion of this course, students will receive an official certificate signed by 

a Nobel Laureate. Learn more »

YOUR FUTURE 

STARTS HERE 

Immersive workshops providing students with foundations in STEM research, 21st-century skills & global stewardship. 

ACADEMIC 

CONNECTIONS 

Immersive programming in the physical and social 

sciences, engineering, arts, and humanities. These online 

and residential summer courses are rigorous and place 

emphasis on active learning, putting knowledge to use in 

independent and creative ways. Offering a diverse group 

of courses in art, engineering, marine science, music, 

computer programming, and writing, students will earn 

6 pre-college credits for each course. 

SALLY RIDE 

SCIENCE 

Engaging interactive STEAM workshops for 

elementary, middle, and high school learners. 

Using a unique hands-on approach, Academy 

participants will traverse the enthralling worlds 

of space exploration, marine biology, coding, 

and programming, among many others.



26 


AR/VR TECHNOLOGY: 

What Does it Mean for Tech Jobs 

By Lisa M Watts 

R/VR technology is a rapidly-evolving 

field with the potential to create new 

and exciting job opportunities. Zippia. 

com reports that the number of U.S. 

jobs that will use AR/VR will be around 

2.32 million by the year 2030. As digital 

content continues to move from 2D flat screens to 3D 

holographic displays, companies are in great need of 

software developers, designers, 3D artists, animators and 

engineers who are knowledgeable about AR/VR technology 

to create these applications and experiences for their 

workers. And as more people buy headsets like the Meta 

Quest 2, more games are being developed natively in VR. 

If you have experience as a gamer or a digital artist, this 

could be a particularly exciting time to really hone your 

skills. Let’s take a look at just a few of the careers in this 

exciting market. 

VISUAL ARTISTS AND STORYTELLING WRITERS 

Artists create 3D models, textures, and animations and 

are in very high demand. They use tools such as Maya, 

Blender, Procreate and Photoshop to create and design the 

various types of content needed for AR/VR experiences as 

well as traditional 2D games and even movies. Being able 

to create in 3D is extremely important. Did you know that 

even though a game may not run in AR or VR, it still is 

designed fully in 3D? 

In addition to visual artists, writers and storytellers are 

needed. Like movies, any great game has a strong storyline, 

a script and narrative. I’m sure you often think that careers 

in tech require background in math, science or computers 

but that is actually not the case. For technology to be 

great, it requires people from all different backgrounds 

as part of the design and development process. 

DEVELOPERS 

Developers create software and applications for AR/VR 

devices, such as headsets, smartphones, and tablets. They 

use programming languages such as Unity, UnrealScript, 

and C# to design and develop AR/VR content. In addition 

to computer science classes that you may have access to 

before college, there are great resources and tutorials 

online that can help you get started. Unity and Unreal 

game engines both have free versions for students, great 

learning content and sample projects (see resources 

below). 

UX/UI DESIGNERS 

Designers create and design the user interface (UI) and 

user experience (UX) for all kinds of digital software 

and experiences, including AR/VR. If you are interested 

in becoming a designer, you may want to study UX 

design principles and techniques to create user-friendly 

interfaces and game mechanics that are intuitive and easy 

to learn. 

ENGINEERS 

If you are interested in computer or electrical engineering 

or computer programming, learning more about AR/VR 

can open up exciting career opportunities. Engineers 

working on AR/VR-related hardware and software work 

on integrating with other systems, such as sensors and 

cameras. The area of optics is particularly exciting as 

many companies are investing big as they try to invent 

ways to make wearable displays smaller and cheaper. 

LEARNING DESIGNERS 

Learning Designers use AR/VR technology to create 

immersive training and educational experiences. They 

work with developers, designers, and artists to create 

programs and simulations to train individuals in various 

industries, such as healthcare and manufacturing. Based 

in game theory, we often call these sorts of training 

experiences as “serious games” or the “gamification” of 

learning. You may have experienced this type of training 

in VR at your school already. 


To prepare for a career in AR/VR, there are 

a number of steps you can take to start to 

develop your technical skills and knowledge. 

Building a portfolio of work is a great way 

to demonstrate skills and experience to 

potential colleges and employers. Start by 

creating your own AR/VR projects, such as a 

simple game or a 3D model. These projects 

can serve as examples of your work and 

can help you stand out. Participating in 

hackathons and competitions is also a 

great way to meet other developers and 

gain experience working on real-world 

projects. By attending industry events such 

as conferences, meetups, and workshops, 

you can also network with other developers 

and stay up-to-date with the latest 

developments in the field. 

AR/VR will have a major impact on how we 

interact with the digital world and it’s clear 

that there will be a growing demand if you 

have experience in this field. 

Lisa M Watts is a passionate technologist, proven business leader and 

XR/metaverse expert. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience 

working at and with companies such as Intel, Sansar, Walmart, Tilt5, 

and Magic Leap, she believes spatial computing is the future of industry 

and our world. As CEO of One/Twenty1 Immersive, she and her team 

collaborate with creators and companies big and small, enabling them 

to achieve market leadership, grow ecosystem partnerships, and bring 

to life the solutions and technologies that are increasingly essential to 

our everyday lives. Lisa is a member of the Television Academy and is an 

accomplished producer, artist and designer. 

PRE-UNIVERSITY STEM 

PROGRAMME AT A WORLD 

TOP TEN UNIVERSITY* 

ARE YOU READY TO JOIN US? 

Study Engineering, Medicine and Life Sciences, or 

Physics at our two-week residential summer programme. 

Taught by Imperial academics, you’ll take your subject 

knowledge to the next level and gain practical skills 

alongside likeminded students from across the world. 

STUDY. MEET. SOLVE. 

JULY & 

AUGUST 

2024 

* 6th Best University in the World, QS World University Rankings 2024. 

8th Best University in the World, Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024

How to Get Involved 

IN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH 

By Dr. Deborah Bedor 

f you consider yourself a young scientist or hopeful 

STEM major, then you will want to become involved in 

the extraordinary experience that is science research. 

French philosopher Michel Foucault describes curiosity 

as: “a passion for seizing what is happening now and what 

is disappearing.” Such curiosity propels powerful fields of 

research in all sectors of academia and is foundational to 

all STEM majors. 

Let’s look at the most obvious benefits of engaging in 

research for an applicant to college. Admissions loves to 

see that you are pushing academic boundaries and going 

down “curiosity rabbit holes” through your independent 

research. If you want proof of that, just look at all the 

places on the Common Application where you can write 

about your research experiences: You can place your 

abstract in the Additional Information section; on some 

supplementary applications you can write an actual essay 

about your research as well as upload your paper. 

On the University of California application, there are 

four required essays of 350 words each, and if you plan 

on majoring in any of the “hard sciences” you should be 

sure to write one of those essays on your research. You 

can create a narrative about your curiosity for engaging in

esearch in your Personal Statement or list your research 

on the Common Application Activities Form. You can also 

note any academic honors you have received for that 

research in the Academic Honors/Awards section of the 

application. 

activism and wants to study the impact of invasive 

plants on the ecosystem 

• The student loves building things or tinkering and 

wants to create a device that will help people with 

physical disabilities 

Shaping you into a more interesting interview subject or 

college-ready STEM student, research experiences teach 

you organizational skills, persuasive communication, 

solutions-thinking, adaptability (because research rarely 

goes according to your initial plans), and discipline. 

DIFFERENT AREAS OF SCIENCE RESEARCH PROJECTS 

There are so many exciting areas of research that students 

don’t realize are possibilities. Students have carried out 

projects such as: 

• “Understanding the genetic mechanisms behind 

muscle growth and decay” 

• “The impact of having a sibling with special needs”, 

• “The effect of different seafloor material on the 

feeding habits of sharks” 

• “Using bamboo to create an emergency shelter for 

sustainable relief efforts” 

• “Creating a new automated method of diagnosing 

colon cancer using digital image analysis” 

Your choice of research area should be interesting and 

important to you. By far, the most successful students are 

not the ones that carried out a project for the sole purpose 

of winning a science fair (just as Nobel Laureates are 

not the people who have simply read the most scientific 

journal articles over their careers); they are those that 

choose an area of research that is fascinating to them. 

HOW TO CHOOSE A GENERAL SCIENCE RESEARCH 

AREA AND A SPECIFIC TOPIC: 

Some students choose a topic because they are talented 

in a certain field of science such as biology or chemistry; 

others choose an area because it has a significance to 

them. Some examples of student motivation for carrying 

out a project are: 

• A grandparent might have died of cancer and the 

student wants to understand more about the disease 

• The student visited a developing country and wants 

to create ways for people in that country to have a 

sustainable source of food 

• The student is motivated by climate change and 

HOW TO CHOOSE A TOPIC CATEGORY: 

Take a look at the 21 categories and subcategories 

typically used by ISEF. 

SUGGESTED TIMELINE OF ACTIVITIES FOR A 

SUCCESSFUL STUDENT SCIENCE RESEARCH PROJECT 

Expect to spend a few months building your foundation 

of understanding about all basic information and related 

research in your field of interest. You need to have a deep 

understanding of all the background material, and related 

research is essential before you reach out to potential 

research mentors. 

A good sequence to follow would be: 

• Read all information available using basic websites 

and printed material (“Dummies guide to…”). 

• Outline all information from general to specific. 

• Create vocabulary lists of all words that are related 

directly or indirectly to your topic 

• Use the keywords that you have seen in the general 

information to find professional research “journal” 

abstracts. 

• Fortified with this information and background, you 

can begin to approach possible mentors. 

A FEW TRICKS TO FINDING RESEARCH ABSTRACTS 

AND ARTICLES 

Since most research articles are posted on-line in Adobe 

PDF format, go to Google.com, type in your area of interest 

with a few specific keywords that you have learned. 

• Click on “Settings,” then “Advanced Search.” In 

the field that says “file type” change it to “Adobe 

Acrobat PDF 

• Highlight the key ideas and vocabulary in each of the 

abstracts. 

• Keep a list of the following (this will be essential to 

refer to over the upcoming months): 

› Title of the research article/abstract 

› Primary researchers (authors) of the articles 

› Location of research 

› Year of the research 

30 

2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM 


TIMEFRAME FOR DIFFERENT AREAS OF STUDENT 

SCIENCE RESEARCH PROJECTS 

While most of the research students carry out the largest 

amount of their project during the summer and/or during 

their school breaks, starting a project or learning about 

the procedures you will be doing during the school year is 

a great advantage. 

Behavioral/Psychology Surveys 

An example: one of our students contacted Autism support 

groups around the nation via phone and email to see if 

they would help spread the word for his online surveybased 

research. He explained that he was interested in 

having feedback from parents that had a child on the 

Autism spectrum. He wanted to determine if there was 

a trend amongst the families that had a strong parent/ 

child relationship based on different parenting styles.The 

Autism support group leaders from around the country 

were so helpful that they passed along his survey to their 

members. 

Computer, Math, Physics 

One student assessed that her parents wasted a lot of 

time while waiting for the subway they took to work. When 

most of the trains opened their doors at the station, they 

were so packed with people that no one else could board 

the train. She wondered whether having alternating trains 

that stopped at alternating stations would help with this 

problem. She combined both her computer skills and her 

love for math to create a “Skip-stop” system for addressing 

this problem. The system she created is currently being 

reviewed by the transit authority of a large city with the 

possibility of implementation. 

Engineering 

One student was an Eagle scout who loved to camp, hike, 

and go kayaking. He was frustrated that he could not 

transport his kayak to remote rivers and streams. After 

some online research he saw that there were only two 

viable options for a “portable” kayak. He noticed that 

one was so heavy it had to be transported by a cart with 

wheels and the other was extremely expensive. Using a 

computer-assisted design software program at his school 

and assorted supplies he assembled in his garage a brand 

new, collapsible kayak that was lighter than any on the 

market and far less expensive. Not only did he win the top 

prize at a regional science fair, but he secured a patent on 

his kayak and won one of the top prizes at the International 

Science and Engineering Fair. 

PROJECT IDEAS IN YOUR AREA OF INTEREST 

So many students have an interest in an area of research 

but are not sure what possible projects a student could 

undertake. One of the best ways to gain insight is to read 

about what numerous award-winning students have done. 

Society for Science and the Public organization runs the 

Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) and the Regeneron 

International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) and they 

have a website where you can read the abstracts from 

every student participant that has presented at ISEF since 

2003. 

Don’t think that just because a project has been done 

that it cannot become a guide for a new project with a 

different focus. 

“We see more and farther than our predecessors, 

not because we have keener vision or greater height, 

but because we are lifted up and borne aloft on their 

gigantic stature” —Bernard of Chartres 

The idea that we can do amazing things with new research 

because we are standing on the “shoulders of giants” is a 

common theme among scientists. Most research happens 

because someone was inspired by previous projects and 

wanted to learn more or test different variables. 

In general, students, if you can create a mentoring 

relationship in science research with your teachers in a 

subject of interest, then that is wonderful, and you should 

go for it! If you cannot locate mentors at your school, 

contact College Admissions Central and we will be happy 

to connect you some of the nation’s top research experts, 

ISEF-affiliated judges, and coaches! 

Dr. Deborah Bedor, CEO of College Admission Central; 

Author of Amazon best sellers: Getting IN by Standing 

OUT and The Exceptional Applicant) 


STUDENT 

TESTIMONIAL: 

Spencer Foss 

UC SAN DIEGO 

RESEARCH SCHOLARS 

(MARINE BIOLOGY) 

Why Did You Choose to Participate In 

This Program? 

I chose to participate in UC San Diego Research 

Scholars: Marine Biology because I have been 

a part of other Marine Biology programs 

and lectures at Birch Aquarium, and wanted 

to continue my studies. I have a passion for 

Marine Biology and UCSD is an excellent place 

due to its field research at Scripps Institute of 

Oceanography (SIO). The ocean is a key part of 

this world, and I feel especially connected to 

it and its inhabitants. This program gave me 

the opportunity to dive deeper into marine 

organisms and discuss environmental impacts. 

How Did You Decide Which Program Was 

Right For You? 

I was looking for programs to participate 

in during my school breaks to further my 

education on a topic I was interested in, which 

led me to the UCSD website. I was looking 

through the academics page and found the 

UCSD Extension department. I had visited the 

UCSD campus for a lecture at Scripps when I 

was younger and thought that participating 

in their Marine Biology programs would be 

fantastic. I looked at the catalog and chose 

a course involving coral, as I knew it was an 

important ecosystem whose existence is 

currently threatened by climate change. After 

participating in the course, I immediately 

wanted to enroll in others, as I discovered a 

community of people who shared an interest in 

my beloved marine world. 

What Was the Most Memorable Moment of Your Program? 

The most memorable moment was being able to perform research 

in a lab, and then present those findings to the general public at 

Cabrillo National Monument Visitor’s Center. I not only was able 

to utilize infrared technology for thermal ecology, but also was 

provided other materials like heating pads and heat lamps along 

with additional items needed for the experiment. 

I literally experienced “life on the edge” when we maneuvered 

through an intertidal to gather samples for our research studies. 

Collecting with my teachers, Nicole Yen and Sonya Timko, by 

climbing along rocks and guiding crabs through crevices, allowed 

me to get a sense of what I would do in the field. Overall, I had an 

amazing adventure and Research Scholars fulfilled my hope of 

having the experience of being a Marine Biologist before college. 

What Advice Do You Have For Teens Looking For Summer 

Programs? 

My advice for teens looking into programs is to be ambitious! 

My first course through UCSD Extension was meant for college 

level, but I was taking it as an incoming freshman in high 

school. Even though it was challenging, I mastered advanced 

concepts compacted in a short time and felt an amazing sense of 

accomplishment. For teens looking for an in depth experience, 

lead with your passion and just go for it! It is so worth it to meet 

new people who share your interests and instructors who are 

truly dedicated. 

32 


STUDENT 

TESTIMONIAL: 

Eileen Sheridan 

QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY 

SUMMER PROGRAMS 

Why did you choose to participate in this 

program? 

After attending the Quinnipiac University Open 

House last Spring, I knew I could see myself 

going to school there. Quinnipiac moved up on 

my list to my first choice for college. I figured it 

would be an amazing opportunity to experience 

a little taste of what college would be like and 

would help me confirm what I want to do in the 

future. The program helped me to confirm that I 

want to be an Occupational Therapist. 

How did you decide which program was right 

for you? 

I knew I wanted to choose an occupation in 

Allied Health Sciences. Allied Health professions 

encompass a large group of professions. 

When I received an email about the summer 

programs being offered, I decided that the 

Health Exploration Program would be perfect 

for me because it would give an insight to many 

healthcare professions, which is exactly what I 

needed to help me determine what I wanted to 

do in my future. 

What was a typical day in your program? 

I woke up around 7am to get ready and then 

head over to the student center for breakfast 

around 8. After breakfast, we went to the 

designated classroom. Classrooms changed 

each day depending on the occupation we 

learned about. Each class was set up as a handson 

workshop about that specific profession we 

were learning about that day. Each session had 

a professional from the field who spoke about 

what a day in the life of that profession was 

like. We then had a hands-on activity. The sessions went from 9am- 

12pm, with a lunch break from 12-1pm. 

Classes resumed from 1-3pm. At 3:00pm we had the opportunity to 

hang out with other students until dinner at 5:00pm. After dinner 

we had an evening activity provided by our amazing counselors and 

would head back to the dorms at 8pm and be in bed by 10pm. The 

program also gave us the opportunity to explore different activities 

in the area. We went hiking at Sleeping Giant State Park, spent a day 

at the aquarium and zoo. These outings gave us an opportunity to 

get to know the staff and the other students in the program. 

What was the most memorable moment of your program? 

That is a hard question for me to answer! I have many reasons 

why the program was memorable and unforgettable. First, 

where else would I have the opportunity to hold a human brain! 

The program gave me great insight on each profession and that 

helped me decide that I want to be an Occupational Therapist. 

Secondly, I met amazing people! The staff were knowledgeable and 

so friendly. I also made great friends that I still talk to everyday! 

Thirdly, it allowed me to see what college life was going to be like. 

This experience helped me realize that I am ready to go away and 

experience the world. 


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PROGRAMS 

HOW IT HAS 

CHANGED THE 

INDUSTRY 

PLUS: GAP 

PROGR AMS + 

ADVISORS 

INSIDE: 

TIPS FOR 

PURSUING A 

MUSIC CAREER 

TOP-PAYING 

ARTS CAREERS 

SUMMER 

PROGRAM AND 

ARTS COLLEGE 

LISTINGS 

USEFUL LINKS 

YOUR FUTURE IN ARTS 


BUILDING A 

FOUNDATION 

FOR SUCCESS IN 

ARTS 


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TeenLife 2023 Your Future In STEM Guide

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