Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in California

Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in California
The top research programs available for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability
UCLA Computer Science Introductory Track
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This program offers a distinct blend of a coding boot camp, lab tours, and UCLA coursework tailored for high school students interested in computer science and related fields. Students will be taught how to utilize computers as instruments for creative problem-solving and exploration by designing and implementing computer programs. The curriculum covers fundamental concepts such as data types (integers, strings, and lists), control structures (including conditionals and loops), and functional decomposition.
Digital Filmmaking Summer Institute
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This program provides a unique chance for ambitious high school students from various locations worldwide to learn filmmaking at one of the most renowned film schools globally. The two-week intensive production workshop is tailored for highly motivated rising high school juniors, seniors, and spring 2022 high school graduates. Participants dive into the artistry and technical aspects of cinematic storytelling and are encouraged to craft engaging narrative projects.
Research Mentorship Program
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This program offers a distinctive feature of providing students with exposure to various interdisciplinary research topics, allowing them to select their preferred project option. The program encompasses 24 fields, ranging from sciences to social sciences and humanities. Students are required to choose a research project and advisor, who could be a graduate student, postdoc, or professor, to undertake graduate-level research.
Polygence
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Polygence is an online research program designed to offer high school students accessible research opportunities, making them more inclusive. The program was created by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford and provides tailored research projects, allowing students to explore their interests, acquire professional skills, and increase their competitiveness for college admissions.
Rady Children's Medical Academy
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The Summer Medical Academy (SMA) is designed for students between 15-19 years old who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. To be eligible, students must have completed 9th grade (up until the summer after graduating 12th grade). While meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance, SMA seeks highly motivated and enthusiastic students who have demonstrated academic success and extracurricular involvement, as well as a passion for healthcare. In addition, geographic proximity to San Diego, last grade completed in school, and affiliation with RCHSD will also be considered. Short answer and essay responses, along with teacher recommendations, are key application criteria. If accepted, details and payment instructions will be provided in acceptance letters. Proceeds from the program benefit the FACES for the Future-San Diego program at Rady Children’s, and a portion of the payment may be tax-deductible.
B-BAY
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Every year, B-BAY, a highly competitive program, invites 50 high school students from different countries to participate in a two-week program. Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture, academics, and daily life of Berkeley. The program offers guest speakers, including professors from the Berkeley Haas School of Business and industry professionals, who share valuable insights and practical experiences. In addition to classroom instruction, students engage in independent research, computer lab assignments, and team projects. Working in teams, participants collaborate on developing a comprehensive business plan, which they present at the end of the program. While the program is prestigious, it comes with a high cost.
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