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.

Summer Program Details

  • The PROMISE Scholars schedule is 10 weeks from May 28 - August 2, 2024. You must commit to working the entire ten weeks and participate in all program workshops.
  • You will work under the direct supervision of a Sanford Research mentor as part of the mentor's research team.
  • You will prepare and present a short project proposal at the beginning of the program and a poster describing your research results in a symposium at the conclusion of the program.
  • You will attend weekly workshops geared towards education and career preparation.
  • You will engage in outreach activities to bring science to the local community.

Applicant Requirements

  • Strong interest in a career in research
  • Entering senior year in the fall of the upcoming academic year (home-schooled students are eligible)
  • Must be at least 16 years old by May 28 
  • 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.

Applications
Applications for summer 2024 will be available in November of 2023. 
Application deadline: January 31, 2024
Applicants will be notified of their status in April of 2024.

 

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Become a PROMISE Scholar

Immerse yourself in research in high school.

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Meet Past Scholars

Grace DiGiovanni

PROMISE Scholar in 2021

McCook Central High School, Salem SD

“Throughout the summer, not only did I do hand-on research, I also had the opportunity to collaborate with different research technicians to learn more about their projects. I gained a better understanding of what biomedical research is, and I was able to experience hands on what day-to-day life looks like in the lab.”

Learn More About Grace's Experience

Lila Batcheller

PROMISE Scholars in 2021

Lincoln High School, Sioux Falls, SD

“It is a great way to experience high level research as a high schooler. I gained valuable insight into the daily role of a researcher, along with more knowledge on how to have a successful professional career in science.”

Learn More About Lila's Experience

Brennan Hurd

PROMISE Scholar in 2019

O’Gorman High School, Sioux Falls, SD
Duke University

“I gained a greater appreciation for research and the ways in which is conducted. This experience is interactive and hands-on but you also build relationships with the mentors and other students.”

Kevin Shan

PROMISE Scholar in 2017

Madison High School, Madison SD
University of Rochester

"My time at Sanford Research introduced me to scientific research and deepened my curiosity for the field by leaving me with many basic bench skills and an open door to the immense world of research."

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.”

Learn More About Jasmine's Experience

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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