Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in Illinois

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Research Opportunities for High School Students in Illinois

The top research programs available for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability

Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

Psychology in Everyday Life

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Hosting Institution

Illinois Institute of Technology

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago, IL

Cost

$795 USD

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Psychology

Summary

In this program, students will be introduced to the field of brain science, including fundamental mental concepts, comprehensive theories, and basic research design. Over the course of a 7-day project, students will collect data, conduct analyses using Jamovi software, and present their findings to peers. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to meet and learn from current graduate students and staff at Illinois Tech.

EXPLORATIONS IN NEUROSCIENCE: NEURONS, BEHAVIOR, AND BEYOND

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Hosting Institution

University of Chicago

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago, IL

Cost

$8,350 USD

Application Deadline

May 20, 2023

Categories

Neuroscience

Summary

In this course, we will investigate how electrochemical and circuit activity in nervous systems contributes to sensation, perception, and various behaviors such as movement, language production, spatial navigation, emotional responses, sleep, and learning and memory. Our approach is inquiry-driven, involving close examination of primary data. Students will learn about experimental methods used in neuroscience research such as molecular DNA and protein sequence analysis, fluorescence microscopy of nervous tissue, and behavioral assays. By examining nervous systems across different phyla, we will also gain insights into the evolution history and inner workings of the human brain.

Illinois Institute of Technology: Psychology in Everyday Life

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Hosting Institution

Illinois Tech

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago, IL

Cost

$595-$1,395 USD

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Social Science, Psychology

Summary

The Psychology summer program is an opportunity for high school students to gain insights into psychology as a science. This program offers a glimpse into collegiate-level psychology studies, as well as how it contributes to self-understanding and the role of therapists. The program is structured around five themes, including an introduction day, multicultural psychology day, psychology research and technology day, introduction to psychotherapy day, and careers and admissions day. The multicultural day offers a chance to learn about the rich cultural history of Bronzeville, the psychology of gentrification, and how BuildBronzeville combats gentrification. In addition, learners will conduct their own research project, practice counseling skills, and gain insights into psychology careers.

Medill Cherubs

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Hosting Institution

Medill-Northwestern Journalism Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Evanston, IL

Cost

$5,000 USD

Application Deadline

March 13, 2023

Categories

Social Science

Summary

Medill's journalism camp offers a five-week summer program for rising high school seniors seeking hands-on experience in print and digital broadcasting, writing, reporting, and editing. The program provides opportunities for students to work on trending topics, conduct interviews, and pitch articles to be published in the Daily Northwestern. Aspiring journalists from all over the world attend the program, and students are paired with mentors who critique their writing assignments. Participating in this program could enhance a student's profile, especially for those interested in applying to top journalism programs.

DSI Summer Lab

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Hosting Institution

The University of Chicago

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago, IL

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

February 12, 2023

Categories

Social Science, Comp Sci, Medi...

Summary

The University of Chicago offers a 10-week summer research program, which is a paid opportunity for high school and undergraduate students to collaborate with a data science mentor in areas such as computer science, social science, public policy, climate and energy policy, materials science, and biomedical research. During the program, research assistants work closely with their mentors to improve their research skills, methodologies, and teamwork. Those who meet the eligibility requirements are assigned to projects in the Social Impact Track.

What is a Research Project?

Research projects involve conducting in-depth investigations on a specific subject matter, which presents an excellent opportunity for high school students to explore their interests, enhance their critical thinking and analytical abilities, as well as showcase their dedication and concentration, which can positively impact their chances of being accepted into college.

Why Do Research as a High School Student in Illinois?

Over the years, many college admissions experts have seen that conducting research can drive strong results. Data from Harvard suggests that students that have demonstrated a history of “substantial scholarship or academic creativity”, including conducting independent research, have a much greater chance of gaining admission. In fact, 95% of students who completed our program were admitted to R1 universities. More importantly, Research allow students to pursue their passions, which helps develop self-esteem and leads to a variety of positive mental health outcomes

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in the state of Illinois?

Illinois colleges and universities offer thousands of degrees and their campuses range from small private colleges in quiet rural locations to large vertical campuses in big-city settings. Science, business, engineering, medicine and a vast array of humanities offered at Illinois universities are at the top of the ranks. Illinois, the "Land of Lincoln," is home to a variety of universities such as Northwestern, Loyola University, DePaul University, and The University of Chicago.

What research opportunities are available in other cities?

For a full set of research opportunity listings, see our guide to research opportunities for high school students.

Want to start a project of your own?

Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors who can help take your project off the ground!

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