Boston University’s Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) program is one of the most competitive science programs for high school students. The students will spend 6 weeks conducting research under the guidance of bright scientific researchers who will help them improve their STEM skills. The cohort of the RISE program is 130 students. These programs offer a perfect blend of intellectual stimulation as well as a quotient of fun, making it enriching and enjoyable. The program is open to only US citizens and legal permanent residents.
All RISE students will achieve a better understanding of the scientific process, research ethics, how to read a research paper, how to present independent research, and how to network in the science and engineering fields.
RISE offers two tracks: Internship and Practicum.
Internship Track:
If you choose the Internship track you will have the opportunity to work on research projects for 40 hours per week with distinguished faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students. Your mentor will design projects that allow you to gain valuable technical and analytical skills while developing an understanding of the scientific process. You can choose from a variety of hands-on research opportunities in fields such as astronomy, biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, computer science, earth and environment, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, neuroscience, physics, psychology, and public health.
Before you decide on the field that you would like to pursue, you should research and review the faculty profiles. This process will help you identify the professors you might be inclined to work with. You can opt for the research opportunity you are interested in while applying for the internship track.
Practicum Track:
The Practicum track in computational neurobiology is ideal for you if you prefer a structured research environment. During the practicum, you will conduct group research in a university setting. You will be under the guidance of a BU instructor. The Practicum track entails a two-hour lecture from your instructor in the morning followed by four hours of group research in the afternoon. The experiments are designed to showcase procedures that are typical of university laboratory research in computational neurobiology. While the course has a defined syllabus with established protocols, the final results of your computational research project cannot be anticipated beforehand.
At the end of the program, RISE Internship and Practicum students present the outcomes of their research project at the Poster Symposium.
One day per week is reserved for Practicum students to join the Internship students to attend workshops aimed at building professional and academic skills
Program dates
The application deadline for BU Rise is usually in February. It will be important to check the program website for next year’s application cycle.
RISE: Calendar & What to Expect | Boston University Summer Term (bu.edu)
Admission and Cost
You are eligible to apply to the Research in Science & Engineering Program (RISE) if you are entering your senior year of high school in fall 2024 and are a US citizen or legal permanent resident. The most competitive applicants that apply for the program have a cumulative, unweighted GPA in the A– to A range.
The cost of the program is different for residential students and commuter students. The cost includes:
Application Fee – $50
Tuition – $5,350
Service Fees – $470
Student Health Services – $25 per visit
Room and Board Options:
14 meals per week – $3120
19 meals per week – $3426
Application requirements:
Complete the online application.
Two recommendations: One recommendation should be from your science or math teacher and the other should be from your counselor or advisor.
Upload your high school transcripts and your standardized test scores (optional).
Internship applicants need to list three faculty members and explain how their research aligns with their interests.
Essays: You will be required to submit three essays on the following topics:
1. Why you selected your subject of interest (300 words)
2. Your academic achievements (250 words)
3. Why you want to attend the RISE program (200 words)
If you need help understanding what you should include in your essays, you can contact us and we can help you find your niche!
In conclusion, the Boston University Research in Science & Engineering (BU RISE) summer program is an outstanding opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of science, engineering, or mathematics. This program provides a unique experience for students to engage in research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors, develop important technical and analytical skills, and gain invaluable research experience. The program also offers a range of professional development opportunities, such as workshops and seminars, that help students develop their communication and presentation skills. Overall, the BU RISE program is an excellent way for students to gain hands-on experience in scientific research and prepare for a successful career in STEM.
