Program Overview

• No-cost, state-funded program for North Carolina students

• Designed for academically talented students aspiring to STEM careers

• Provides hands-on research experience at university campuses

Eligibility

• Open to North Carolina students in their second or third year of high school (10th or 11th grade)

• Students must have high academic ability, motivation, and keen interest in science and mathematics

• Parents/guardians must have established legal NC residency by December 1 of the application year

Program Structure

• Four-week residential program on a college campus

• Students conduct research projects in their areas of interest

• Includes an online Research Prep course prior to the on-campus portion

Participating Universities

Four campuses host the Summer Ventures program:

1. UNC Wilmington

2. UNC Charlotte

3. Appalachian State University

4. East Carolina University

Application Process

• Applications open mid-October and close early January

• Online application through CFNC.org

• Requires transcripts, teacher and counselor evaluations

• Competitive selection process

Key Dates for 2025

• October 15, 2024: Application opens

• January 5, 2025: Application essays due

• February 28, 2025: Transcripts and evaluations due

• April 3, 2025: Students notified of decisions

• Summer 2025: Programs typically run for four weeks between mid-June and early August

Program Features

• Research projects guided by university faculty

• Access to university facilities and resources

• Networking opportunities with like-minded peers

• College preparation activities

• Evening and weekend recreational activities

Cost

• The program is entirely cost-free for accepted students

• Includes meals, housing, and program activities

Additional Information

• Students can't attend both NCSSM residential program and Summer Ventures

• NCSSM online students are eligible to apply

• Limited to one summer participation per student

• Administered by North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM)

Summer Ventures aims to provide a unique, hands-on summer experience that exposes talented students to advanced STEM research and university life, potentially influencing their future academic and career choices.