STEM Research Academy

Thanks to generous support from the Pinkerton Foundation, College Now is able to offer a special opportunity for students interested in science research. Each spring, 25 participants are placed in a pre-college urban aquatic ecology course. Working closely with science professionals and undergraduate mentors, teams of students explore many aspects of the scientific method, from literature reviews, to laboratory and field research, data collection, and analysis. The course culminates in team presentations of field and library research findings. Students receive ongoing support in communication and presentation skills and access to events hosted by the American Museum of Natural History’s Science Research Mentoring Consortium, of which the STEM Academy is a part.

Strongly motivated and committed students who complete the spring course may then apply for a prestigious intensive summer laboratory research internship. Students who are accepted spend six weeks working as part of a laboratory research team at Brooklyn College, gaining authentic, hands-on academic science experience. Summer interns also receive a $1,000 stipend, invitations to additional STEM presentations and college-related events, and access to an invaluable network of support to help them navigate their STEM-related college and career options.

Applications, high school transcripts, and individual interviews are required. Eleventh graders from schools underserved by STEM initiatives and opportunities are especially encouraged to apply. Motivated 10th graders will also be considered.

Contact us via e-mail to request additional information and/or an application for the STEM Research Academy.