34 Research and Summer Programs in Virginia For High School Students

Summary

Our curriculum is designed to challenge you to participate and interact with your fellow students and the historical sites we visit. The experiential curriculum is built around four components: (1) Case Method Institute history cases; (2) parliamentary debates; (3) a speaker series and (4) visits to the defining sites of American history. four-week residential summer program.

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True prep for college: Participate in class discussions with a maximum of 12 students; Read 30-60 pages of college-level articles and primary source documents each night; Submit written work each week. Course work includes Artifacts of American History (a new course), The Road to the American Revolution, and The Road to the United States Civil War.

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The USA Biology Olympiad, or USABO, is a prestigious biology competition for high school students in the United States, consisting of 4 rounds of exams. This is a bit of a different kind of competition as it consists of tests rather than research or project submissions. If test-taking is more for you and you're interested in biology, this could be a great opportunity to build upon your biology knowledge beyond what you can learn in the classroom.

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The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) Governor's School is a 4-week summer residential school provided in cooperation with The Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary, and the students are housed at Christopher Newport University. This program has been serving high-achieving high school students throughout Virginia and providing participants with authentic experiences in marine research. Each summer, VIMS hosts up to 6 students who have demonstrated an interest in and aptitude for marine science.

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RSI (Research Science Institute) is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and competitive research programs available for high school students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This exclusive program takes place at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and accepts approximately 80 students each year. During their participation in RSI, students have the opportunity to collaborate with accomplished researchers based in Boston on independent research projects. At the conclusion of the program, students showcase their research findings to the wider community in a conference-style setting. This allows them to share their discoveries and insights with peers, mentors, and other interested individuals. The level of competition for admission to RSI is exceptionally high. For instance, in 2019, the program received around 1,600 applications for just 80 available spots, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 5%. This competitive acceptance rate underscores the program's selective nature and the caliber of students it attracts.

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The essay contest, supported by the Bill of Rights Institute, serves as a platform to inspire students to engage in critical and imaginative thinking about the significance of people's rights and their impact on society. The grand prize winner of the contest will be awarded $5,000 along with a scholarship for the Constitutional Academy. Additionally, six runners-up will receive $1,250 each, while eight honorable mentions will receive $500 each. The contest is open to individuals who are citizens or legal residents of the United States and fall between the ages of 14 and 19.

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If you have a keen interest in history, law, and government, this residential summer program is the perfect option for you. Organized by the national heritage area and non-profit organization Journey Through Hallowed Ground, the program emphasizes place-based education. Your weekly schedule will encompass classroom studies as well as visits to historical sites. The curriculum also incorporates case studies and parliamentary debates to deepen your understanding. To apply for the program, you will need to submit an essay and participate in a phone interview. It's worth noting that the program is selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 38%.

Summary

If you are accepted into this program, your chances of being admitted to MIT as a freshman are significantly enhanced. The Research Science Institute (RSI) is an exclusive opportunity that invites 80 exceptionally talented students from various countries to participate in a fully funded, 6-week research program. During this program, you will have the opportunity to conduct independent research in STEM subjects and engage in college-level coursework. To maximize the benefits of this program, it is expected that you stay updated with the latest literature in your field of interest, develop a research plan from scratch, and work on presenting your findings both orally and in written form. Throughout this process, you will receive guidance and mentorship from some of the most brilliant scholars in the world. Participating in RSI provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in advanced research, engage in intellectual discourse with peers and mentors, and develop valuable skills in critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and presentation. Given the rigorous and prestigious nature of the program, successful completion of RSI can significantly enhance your profile and increase your chances of admission to MIT as a freshman.

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The provision of care for seniors and the elderly heavily relies on the support of volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of services and to foster social engagement with often overlooked segments of the population. This organization serves an impressive number of over 2.4 million seniors ranging from 60 to 100+ years old each year. Regardless of your location within the United States, there are volunteer opportunities available that cater to your interests. These opportunities may involve assisting in kitchen operations, delivering meals, or even sharing meals with the recipients. By volunteering, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors while contributing to the well-being of your community.

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DECA, formerly known as Distributive Education Clubs of America, has a long-standing tradition of hosting annual business plan and investment competitions that cover a wide range of niches and sub-niches. From Restaurant and Food Service Management to Business Solutions Project to Franchise Business Plan and Sports and Entertainment Marketing, DECA offers diverse opportunities for participants to ideate and compete in their preferred niche. These events not only foster career readiness but also promote research readiness and cultivate a strong entrepreneurial mindset among the participants. For more detailed information on the competitions, I recommend visiting DECA's official website.

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The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) is a prestigious science fair in the US that receives government support. The symposia are held regionally and nationally, attracting over 8,000 participants from schools across the United States, Puerto Rico, Europe, and the Pacific. To participate in the national symposium, students must first compete and qualify at the regional level. The competition is highly selective, with a final round acceptance rate of less than 3%. What sets JSHS apart is its mentorship program, which pairs students with mentors who provide guidance and support online. This mentorship resource is available year-round, offering assistance during the competition season as well as during research and project development. The JSHS Virtual Mentorship Program is a valuable opportunity for students to receive guidance from experienced mentors in their scientific pursuits.

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The USA Biolympiad is an esteemed competition that provides an exceptional opportunity for high school students interested in biology. With a rigorous selection process and a large number of participants, the Biolympiad challenges students through activities and quizzes covering a wide range of biological topics. To qualify for the final round, participants must excel in the initial online exams. The top 20 finalists are then invited to a residential training program held at Marymount University. During this program, participants delve into advanced biological concepts and enhance their laboratory skills. The USA Biolympiad offers an immersive and competitive experience that can significantly enrich a student's understanding of biology and open doors to further academic and research opportunities in the field.

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The Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) is a thrilling competition that offers high school students an opportunity to design, build, and launch fully-functional rockets. With over 80,000 participants since its inception, TARC provides valuable exposure in the field of rocketry. In teams of 3-10, students are tasked with constructing a rocket capable of carrying a large hen egg to an altitude of 850 feet, maintaining a flight duration of 42 to 45 seconds, and safely returning to the ground. The rocket must incorporate separate sections for the egg and altimeter, as well as the rocket motor(s), both of which must deploy parachutes after reaching the peak altitude. To qualify, teams must present their rocket to an observer from the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) for an official qualification score. The top 100 teams will be invited to compete in a national fly-off for a chance to win a share of the $100,000 prize package. The TARC challenge not only tests students' engineering skills but also encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. It is a remarkable opportunity to showcase your passion for rocketry and potentially secure recognition and rewards for your achievements.

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CyberPatriot's National Youth Cyber Defense Competition is a renowned cybersecurity competition that offers participation to schools and approved youth organizations. The competition presents teams of high school and middle school students with the challenge of assuming the role of newly hired IT professionals responsible for managing the network of a small company. Over several rounds of online competitions, teams are provided with virtual operating systems and are tasked with identifying and resolving cybersecurity vulnerabilities while ensuring the continuity of critical services. As the largest cybersecurity competition globally, CyberPatriot plays a significant role in promoting cyber defense skills among the youth.

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The National Institute of American History & Democracy (NIAHD) offers an immersive and hands-on program that goes beyond traditional textbook learning. Through a partnership between William & Mary and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, this program provides students with a unique opportunity to study history through direct engagement with material objects, oral histories, and even archaeological sites. With a variety of course options available, such as Artifacts of American History, The Road to the American Revolution, and The Road to the United States Civil War, students can choose the topic that aligns with their interests. By actively participating in the exploration and analysis of historical artifacts and sites, students gain a deeper understanding of American history and develop critical thinking and research skills. This program offers a dynamic and interactive approach to studying history, allowing students to make meaningful connections between the past and the present.

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This program offers a comprehensive experience for aspiring engineers, encompassing both summer and year-round components. The two-week residential summer camp provides hands-on training in engineering, focusing on design projects and lab activities. It offers a practical and immersive learning environment where students can develop their engineering skills and knowledge. In addition to the summer program, participants receive ongoing support throughout the year. This includes assistance with college applications, opportunities to visit the Virginia Tech campus, and networking opportunities with staff and students. By participating in this program, students can gain valuable insights into the field of engineering, enhance their college readiness, and establish connections within the engineering community.

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UVA Advance provides a comprehensive college experience for high school students, offering a glimpse into university life and an opportunity to earn college credits. The program features a range of workshops that prepare students for the academic and social aspects of undergraduate studies. Participants can engage in social activities both on and off the university campus, fostering a sense of community and connection. The academic component of UVA Advance is particularly robust, with a specially designed core course that explores diverse topics such as Empowered Women in Africa, Business Communication, Introduction to Oceanography, and Genocide. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose an elective course from the regular undergraduate syllabus, further expanding their academic horizons. By participating in UVA Advance, students can gain valuable college readiness skills, broaden their intellectual perspectives, and earn transferable college credits, all while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the University of Virginia.

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The Black College Institute (BCI) at Virginia Tech is a prestigious four-day academic enrichment program designed to provide underrepresented and minority students with expanded opportunities. The program offers a range of workshops and hands-on activities in various academic disciplines, allowing students to explore their interests and engage in meaningful learning experiences. In addition to academic content, BCI also provides support and guidance for the college application process, helping students navigate the complexities of applying to higher education institutions. A unique feature of BCI is its service learning component, which allows participants to contribute to the community and develop a sense of social responsibility. With its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, BCI has become highly competitive, receiving over 1,200 applications in 2021. The upcoming 2023 cohort will consist of 200 talented and motivated students who will benefit from this enriching and transformative program.

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The Virginia Space Grant Consortium offers an exceptional program for students interested in climate change and eager to collaborate with NASA. This program provides an interactive online course consisting of seven modules, where students have the opportunity to learn from NASA researchers and engage with NASA-related research and data. The most exciting aspect of this program is the summer residency at Langley, where selected students will work on a team project to design a satellite mission that explores Earth Systems. This hands-on experience allows participants to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. Additionally, students can choose the Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars Program, which focuses on human spaceflight. The program structure is similar, providing valuable learning opportunities and culminating in a team project. It is important to note that the dates provided are for the 2022-2023 program, and the timeline for the 2023-2024 program is expected to be similar.

Summary

The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) offers a valuable program aimed at empowering youth with developmental or other disabilities and helping them develop their leadership skills. This program provides a range of activities focused on leadership development, social skills enhancement, and interactions with role models and guest speakers who cover relevant topics. The agenda also includes a special Capitol Day, where participants will have the opportunity to meet lawmakers and government officials and engage in a mock legislative hearing. It is important to note that the application process for this program is competitive, and only 25 students will be selected to participate.

Summary

For those interested in dentistry, this program in Virginia offers a valuable opportunity to explore the profession and gain hands-on experience. Through interactive workshops and lab activities, participants will have the chance to engage in tooth carving, suturing, digital dentistry, and other related activities. The program is a commuter program, meaning participants will need to arrange their own transportation. However, the program itself is completely free. It's worth noting that VCU also offers other programs for high schoolers, such as the Pharmacy Summer Scholars program and the Allied Health Career Exploration program, providing a range of options for students interested in various healthcare fields.

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In this two-week program, students can choose between two tracks: Computer Science/Information Technology and Engineering. The Computer Science/Information Technology track offers hands-on experience with hardware, including assembling a desktop computer and installing an operating system. Students will also delve into topics such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. On the other hand, the Engineering track focuses on the data center and semiconductor manufacturing industries. Students will have the opportunity to visit industry partners and even earn their OSHA 10 certificate, which is valuable for understanding workplace safety. Both tracks provide valuable insights and practical skills in their respective fields.

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The Purpose and Power: Women Shaping History residential pre-college program is designed to empower young women by exploring the important role of women in shaping history. Through a combination of on-campus and off-campus learning experiences, students will delve into various aspects of women's contributions throughout history. Additionally, participants will receive support for the college application process, including a letter of recommendation from Hollins University, mentoring, and workshops. With a limited cohort size of 20 students, this program offers a selective and intimate learning environment.

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The Arlington Independent Media internship is a valuable opportunity for aspiring journalists to gain hands-on experience in multimedia storytelling. Over the course of six weeks, participants will learn how to transform their story ideas into compelling nonfiction multimedia pieces, including video, photography, and audio. Through workshops and story meetings, students will develop their skills in journalism and receive guidance from experienced professionals. This program provides a real-world journalism experience, allowing interns to build their portfolio with impactful media pieces. Additionally, participants will have the chance to network and establish connections within the industry. Upon completion, interns will receive a letter of recommendation, further enhancing their future opportunities in journalism.

Summary

The George Mason University ASSIP (Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program) offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in hands-on research in various fields. By partnering with a mentor from the university, participants will delve into specific projects across disciplines such as Earth Science, Molecular Medicine, Cyber Security, Finance, Astronomy, Math, and Forensic Science, among others. The program provides access to state-of-the-art technology and equipment, allowing students to gain practical experience and develop their scientific skills. Through their research, participants will also enhance their scientific writing abilities, explore potential STEM career paths, and foster creativity and innovation. The program format may vary depending on the project, ensuring a tailored experience for each student. ASSIP serves as a platform for students to immerse themselves in the world of research and gain valuable insights into their chosen fields of interest.

Summary

JMU's Honors Summer Institute offers a highly competitive and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for college life. With an acceptance rate of 30 students, the program provides a unique opportunity to engage in a variety of academic experiences. Participants will take part in an interdisciplinary Honors Core Course, where they will explore a current issue from multiple perspectives and fields of study. This course encourages critical thinking and fosters an appreciation for interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving. Additionally, students will attend subject-area classes that focus on different majors each day, allowing them to gain exposure to various academic disciplines and explore potential areas of interest for their college major. The dynamic and engaging nature of the classes ensures an interactive and enjoyable learning experience. JMU's Honors Summer Institute aims to provide students with a well-rounded training in college life, equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge as they prepare for their higher education journey.

Summary

You Be The Chemist is an engaging and interactive chemistry competition that offers high school students the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and skills in the field. The competition is structured in a team format, encouraging collaboration and teamwork among participants. The regional challenges test students' understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts through a combination of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and video essays. The competition progresses to state and national finals, where top-performing teams from different regions compete for scholarships and valuable networking opportunities with scholars and industry leaders. Participating in You Be The Chemist not only allows students to demonstrate their chemistry prowess but also fosters their enthusiasm for the subject and encourages further exploration in the field.

Summary

This unique summer program, held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is the first of its kind to be completely free of charge. Students participating in this program have the opportunity to delve into the realms of science and engineering, gaining hands-on experience in the entire research process. Spanning seven weeks, the program includes attending classes led by renowned professors, engaging in a five-week research internship, and culminating in the preparation and delivery of written and oral presentations to showcase their research findings.

Summary

The Technology Student Association (TSA) offers middle and high school students with a strong interest and aptitude in STEM the opportunity to participate in a wide range of challenges and activities. The organization provides a platform for students to engage in coding, data science and analytics, virtual reality, game design, and many other STEM-related fields. TSA competitions and challenges encourage students to showcase their skills and knowledge in these areas, fostering innovation, problem-solving, and creativity. By participating in TSA, students have the chance to further develop their STEM abilities, interact with like-minded peers, and explore various areas of technology and engineering.