High School Research Scholars Program

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PROMISE Scholars Summer Internship

This unique 10-week research internship offers a total-immersion experience in real-time laboratory research at Sanford for motivated high school students with an aptitude for biomedical sciences. Work alongside scientists as part of the research team, connect with peers through in-house scientific interest groups, and present your work as a scientific poster at the Sanford Research Symposium. PROMISE Scholars earn 3 undergraduate elective-credits at the University of South Dakota (BIOC192) and are awarded a $2,500 scholarship.

Applicant Requirements

  • Strong interest in a scientific career
  • Entering senior year in the fall of the upcoming academic year (home-schooled students are eligible)
  • Must be at least 16 years old by June 1
  • Committed to participating in the entire 10-week summer program (minimum of 35 hours/week)
  • Candidates are encouraged to participate in other Sanford PROMISE programming for an introduction to the research environment. Opportunities include: Research Shadowing Program, Teen Science Café and Community Lecture Series.

2021 Applications
Applications available: October 12
Application deadline: January 29
Applicants will be notified of their status in March.

 

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Become a PROMISE Scholar

Immerse yourself in research in high school.

Meet Past Scholars

Jasmine Johnson

PROMISE Scholar in 2019

Washington High School, Sioux Falls, SD
University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD

“I gained a research lab experience that has been very beneficial for college, a strong connection with the people in my lab and my fellow scholars, and a confirmation that I want to continue to do research and study in a health science field. I feel very lucky to have gotten the full research experience in high school – one that most other students my age don’t get.”

Austyn Smithback

PROMISE Scholar in 2019

Harrisburg High School, Harrisburg, SD
Augustana University, Sioux Falls, SD

“The Sanford PROMISE Scholars Program is an amazing opportunity for anyone to see what research is really like. The program is filled with people who are always there to answer your questions and assist you in any way they can! I got a better understanding of how research works and what a scientist does on a day-to-day basis. In additional to improving my public speaking skills, my overall ability to read scientific journals, analyze data and think like a scientist has been elevated.”

Elise Etrheim

PROMISE Scholar in 2018

Lincoln High School, Sioux Falls, SD
Emory University, Atlanta, GA

“My experiences at Sanford Research helped solidify my desire to major in a hard science and pursue research opportunities. Through the conversations and individuals I have met within the program, I am now entertaining the possibility of pursuing a PhD and/or MD.”

Maycie Schultz

PROMISE Scholar in 2018

Harrisburg High School, Harrisburg, SD
Augustana University, Sioux Falls, SD

“My experiences with Sanford Research cultivated my love for science and inspired me to stick with my passion by pursuing science as an occupation. My lab members provided amazing input regarding research and never failed to cheer me on in my endeavors. Getting into the Sanford PROMISE Scholars Program when I was 17 was the best thing to ever happen to me. Everyone at Sanford Research has helped me truly find who and what I want to be in my future.”

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