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Social Science Summer Pre-College Research Experience

The Summer Research Program is a transformative academic opportunity for high school students. It is carefully designed to give participants an edge when applying to college. It provides hands-on experience in the world of social sciences. Fellows will engage in real research projects, developing skills in data analysis, critical thinking, academic writing, research poster development, and public speaking.

In the program, students will:

• Get familiar with current research practices in political science and sociology
• Get personalized guidance and mentorship
• Work with faculty advisors to complete a research project
• Work with current university students and learn about their journey in social science
• Utilize the nationally renowned Chapman Survey of American Fears to explore a unique research question and make discoveries
• Learn how to design a research poster and evaluate social scientific literature critically
• Practice presenting research findings in a professional setting
• Receive a certificate of completion

This program is suggested for students with a 3.5+ GPA who are genuinely interested in research and/or social sciences. Participants are expected to actively participate in all in-person activities.

Program Schedule

TBD

FAQ & Participation Requirements

• When is the 2026 program?: The program will run on weekdays (Monday-Friday) from July 6-24, 2026, from 9am12pm.
• Who are the 2026 faculty advisors?: In 2026, the inaugural year of the program, the advisors will be Drs. Ann Gordon and Karen A. Snedker. We anticipate having a rotating group of talented faculty members leading the summer program. Student mentors will be current university students working in the research lab.
• Do participants need to be in high school to participate?: Participants must enter grades 10-12 in the fall following the summer program.
• What do I need to prepare?: Participants need to bring a laptop running Windows 10/11 (64-bit), or macOS 10.15 or higher). Students will need to purchase and download SPSS grad pack (approximately $34.95).

Costs & Registration

• Total Cost for 2026: $1,500
  • Access to social science research lab
  • In-person learning sessions
  • End-of-program presentation materials, including a reception for guests
  • Certificate of completion

Program Advisors

• Dr. Ann Gordon: Associate Professor; Director, Social Sciences Laboratory, Political Science
• Dr. Karen Snedker: Associate Professor of Sociology; Associate Dean, Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences