Summer Enrichment Programs
This is a live list -- please reach out to your counselor if you have specific interests you would like to research!
Summer Training in Academic Research Program (STAR)
The Summer Training in Academic Research (STAR) Program provides a high-quality research experience for undergraduate students, high school students, and middle and high school teachers during the summer academic break.
The eight-week program will give participants who are interested in science and medicine real hands-on experience in research methodology and writing. Participants are placed in teams and matched with Duke faculty mentors to work on an original, hypothesis-driven project, originating as a one-page summary and culminating in a complete research paper. A goal of the program is to have every participant qualify for co-authorship on a peer-reviewed manuscript related to their team’s project.
The STAR Program is held at the Duke Clinical Research Institute in Durham, N.C., which has organized educational and support programs for junior faculty, fellows, residents, and medical students as well as high school and college students. Participants receive a stipend to attend, which makes the program an option even for students who planned to work over the summer break (see below).
Summer 2024 applications period is from Nov. 20, 2023 thru Jan. 05, 2024. There will be no extension.
The program will take place on June 24 to August 2, 2024.
Questions may be submitted via email (dukestarprogram@duke.edu). We regret that we are unable to respond to phone calls.
Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Conference (HOBY)
The North Carolina Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Conference (HOBY) is a 3-day leadership program for approximately 200 rising high school juniors (CURRENT SOPHOMORES) held each June at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. HOBY Ambassadors have an opportunity to develop their critical thinking skills, learn about their personal leadership styles, and form an appreciation for community service.
Summer Ventures in Science and Math
Summer Ventures in Science and Math is a cost-free, state-funded program for academically talented students who may pursue careers based in science and mathematics. The program brings rising juniors and seniors together in a residential setting for four weeks of intensive study during the summer. Students may apply online at
Black SEL Hub Summer Institute
Black SEL is social-emotional learning tailored to the lived experiences and needs of Black students and communities. This initiative aims to address the unique challenges faced by Black students due to racism, prejudice, and marginalization, which can impact their academic success and overall well-being.
The Black SEL Hub Summer Institute is a five-day program designed to explore the social-emotional development of Black students. Through our Black SEL curriculum, participants will receive training in social justice skills, racial equity, leadership, workforce development, character development, media literacy, and civic engagement, all while integrating the five competencies of SEL. Our goal is to foster confidence, resilience, character, values, and a sense of civic responsibility among participants.
This opportunity is FREE of charge to the first 200 students who register by April 30th, exclusively in North Carolina!
To enroll or learn more, please complete the appropriate form below. Should you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out at info@blacksel.org.
Princeton University Prize in Race Relations
The Princeton Prize in Race Relations recognizes high school students who engage and challenge their schools and communities to advance racial equity and promote respect and understanding among all. Prize winners will receive $1,000 and an invitation to participate in a Symposium on Race. During the symposium, recipients will have the opportunity to meet and learn from other Princeton Prize recipients from across the country and to speak with others engaged in racial justice work and scholarship.
Governor's Page Program
The Governor’s Page Program offers students an in-depth view of state government. During the week, Pages will be onsite in the Governor’s Office and will also tour government buildings and historic sites including the Legislative Building, the State Capitol, the Executive Mansion, and the North Carolina Museum of History. In addition, pages will have the opportunity to develop a policy proposal with policy officials from various state government departments. You can find more information on our website here: https://governor.nc.gov/governors-page-program , or on the attached flyer.
Virginia Tech Science Summer Camps
EXPLORE SCIENCE
June 24 - 27 for rising 9th- 10th graders
Microbiology, neuroscience, physics, nanoscience, psychology, coding, game-o-nomics, and way more!
EXPLORE DATA SCIENCE
July 8 - 12 for rising 11th- 12th graders
Statapult-catapults, coding, data ethics, molecular modeling, disease surveillance, game theory, career exploration, and more!
EXPLORE PHYSICAL SCIENCES
July 15 - 19 for rising 11th- 12th graders
Solar energy, nanoscience, GPS and modeling, physics and astronomy, biochemistry, geophysical methods to study the critical zone, career exploration, and more!EXPLORE LIFE SCIENCES
July 22 - 26 for rising 11th- 12th graders
Neuroscience, nanomedicine, ecology, chemical biology, emerging diseases, bioinformatics, ancient life forms, career exploration, and more!
Registration Is Now Open (Click Here)!
Space is limited, so register soon.
Project Uplift
Project Uplift is a summer enrichment and college access program designed to promote and increase access to higher education for rising high school seniors, especially those underrepresented in postsecondary education. Every summer, approximately 1,000 high school seniors participate in one of multiple Project Uplift sessions. Participants learn about the college admissions process, interact with faculty, staff, and current students, and participate in educational, cultural, and social activities. Project Uplift scholars have the opportunity to immerse themselves in college life and experience the academic rigor and social climate of a four-year institution.
Uplift PLUS
Uplift PLUS is an intensive, 2-week summer academic enrichment and college readiness program for Project Uplift participants. This program is only for NC residents. During the program, participants live on campus, take an essay writing course, participate in cultural competence workshops, and interact with campus partners and offices. Participants also engage in college application prep, leadership development, and experiential learning opportunities. Students must attend Project Uplift to participate in Uplift PLUS. There is no separate application for Uplift PLUS. Students must indicate on their Project Uplift application whether they would like to be considered for Uplift PLUS.
https://diversity.unc.edu/project-uplift-and-uplift-plus/about-project-uplift/
Elon University Emerging Journalists Program
The Elon Emerging Journalist Program offers the ideal opportunity for high school students to explore what it means to be a journalist, to report and to produce news that informs communities
Applications are now open, and the first of four monthly virtual interactive learning sessions is scheduled for January. Students may apply to attend the virtual sessions only or for both the virtual component and the on-campus summer experience. This on-campus residential learning workshop to is open to students from diverse socio-economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Again, it’s completely free. EJP pays for students’ travel, lodging, meals and instructional materials.
Interested students may apply at www.elon.edu/ejp
Future Teachers of NC: Eastern NC Symposium
This is a free two-day experience with an option to reside on campus for one night in an ECU residence hall. This event will offer information, experiences and resources about the teaching profession to help participants explore many of the wonderful aspects of being a Teacher.
Rising high school juniors, seniors and current seniors who are interested in becoming a teacher are invited to apply to the free 2-day Future Teachers of NC: Eastern NC Symposium. The Eastern NC Symposium is a collaboration among East Carolina University, the University of North Carolina-Pembroke and the University of North Carolina-Wilmington.
During this two day on-campus experience, participants will learn about the field of education through creative, engaging, fun activities. Participants will interact with current students majoring in teacher education, faculty and staff from ECU, UNC-Pembroke and UNC-Wilmington. Participants will also learn about college life and make meaningful connections with peers.
Participants will have the option of a 1-night overnight stay in an ECU campus residence hall—there is no cost to stay overnight. Free meals and snacks will be provided to participants.
Habitat for Humanity of Wake County Summer of Service
Habitat Wake is seeking individuals to participate in our Summer of Service internship program. As a Habitat Wake intern, you will select a concentration track and commit to working alongside staff and volunteers to gain new skills. Your positive attitude and volunteer spirit will help support Habitat Wake’s mission to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope.
Concentration tracks:
New home construction
Office-based projects
Volunteer Benefits:
Hands-on experience in one of Habitat Wake’s core program areas
Opportunities to build your leadership, project management and time management skills
Exposure to the operations and administration of a non-profit organization
Opportunities for networking with diverse members of the community
A certificate of program completion to add to your portfolio and resume
Opportunities to be involved in future Habitat Wake special events
Note: This is an unpaid volunteer opportunity.
Habitat Wake’s Summer of Service is a great opportunity for anyone looking to enhance their resume and build experience in the non-profit field.
App State AsULEAD Program
AsULead is a program for a diverse group of students who are emerging leaders in their schools and communities. Students who become part of our AsULead cohort will have the opportunity to participate in a four day in-person summer session focusing on community building opportunities, leadership development training, and overall college preparedness. AsULead also includes a virtual component over the course of the students’ senior year to continue discussing the importance of college and give students access to resources they may not otherwise learn about.
AsULead students will be competitive for selective colleges and scholarship opportunities as a result of this program, as well as having the opportunity to return to their communities as ambassadors for college success. Additionally, upon completion of the program, students will be guaranteed admission into Appalachian State University!
REQUIREMENTS:
Students must be of a historically underrepresented background. This includes, but is not limited to: students of color, students from low income families, first generation students, students from rural areas, and students from other diverse backgrounds.
In order to receive guaranteed admission to App State, students must:
complete the program in its entirety, including all virtual sessions
maintain a 3.5 weighted high school GPA
Dartmouth Bound Program
The Dartmouth Bound Program will take place on campus in Hanover, NH. The College will cover travel expenses, housing, and meals for all participants. The program is designed to provide rising seniors currently living and attending a high school in the U.S., from low-income and/or historically underrepresented backgrounds with
An in-depth introduction to the enduring value of a liberal arts education through Dartmouth’s curriculum and faculty
An opportunity to stay in Dartmouth’s residence halls and connect with current student mentors
Engaging workshops led by Dartmouth’s admissions and financial aid officers
A series of panels led by current Dartmouth students to prepare rising seniors for college life
https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/visit/visitation-programs/dartmouth-bound-summer-program