Apply

Eligibility 

To be eligible for the program, students must: 

• Be a current high school sophomore, junior, or senior (grades 10-12) at time of application. 
• Be able to arrange their own transportation to and from the program. This is strictly a daytime program. Housing for students is currently unavailable. Free CTA transit passes are available to admitted students.
• Receive permission from a parent/guardian. 

Application Materials 

The application includes collection of applicant’s basic information and essay questions. Please read each question in full. To complete the application you will need: 

• Applicant’s basic contact information, parental contact information, and grade level 
• Name and address of applicant’s high school 
• Applicant availability for Sessions 1 or 2
• 1-page essay: 
  • Pick a science news article from the past few years that you found exciting or meaningful. Write about what captured your attention and how it connects to your interests, goals, and/or experiences. Why does this topic matter to you?
    (500-800 words)
     
    Answer format:
    * Include article title and link.
    * 1 paragraph summary of the article.

    * 2-3 paragraphs on why this excites you / what it means to you / how it connects to your interests, goals, or experiences.

    Science news articles should be drawn from a reputable source.
    Examples include www.sciencenews.org, www.astronomy.com, www.quantamagazine.org, or www.cnn.com/specials/space-science, and more.

• Short answer essay
  • What do you hope to gain from participating in the REACH program?
    (1-2 paragraphs)
• Short answer essay
  • Please describe your familiarity with computer programming or related computing skills. For example, have you used any programming or scripting languages (like Python, JavaScript, or Scratch)? Have you worked with different operating systems (like Windows, macOS, or Linux)?
    Note: No prior experience is required to apply. REACH is an introductory level coding program.
• Short answer essay
  • Have you participated in any STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) research prior to this application?
    If yes, please briefly describe the opportunity and your experience.
    If no, please write Not Applicable.
    No prior research experience is required to apply.
• Short answer essay
  • What ventures or activities in or out of school do you participate in to further your STEM interests?
• Short answer essay
  • What is missing from your STEM experience? Are there opportunities you wish you had access to or wish you could explore?
• (Optional) A current transcript for the applicant 
• (Optional) A recommending teacher’s name and email address. Teacher can send a letter of recommendation to an email address provided on the application 

Cost 

The costs for the program are as follows: 

• $2,500 for the 3-week Core program
• +$1,500 for the REACH Further extension

Important: Need-based financial assistance may be available thanks to the Brinson Foundation and donors to CIERA, and can be requested on the application form. 100% of students who request assistance receive at least a partial waiver. 

Application Results

Application results will be announced by the end of April and sent via email to the student’s email address provided on the application. This website will be updated to reflect any updates.

All communication from the program is sent to the student’s email address provided on the application. Students are responsible for sharing necessary information and forms with their parent(s)/guardian(s).
Emails will be sent from CIERA-HSProgram@Northwestern.edu