Who should apply?

High-school sophomores, juniors, and seniors seriously interested in a science career may apply; students looking to add an activity to their resumes should not. The program requires lots of time and effort, and students are expected to make it a priority.

How do I apply?

Complete the application form and follow the directions to submit it. Be sure to submit only one copy of the application.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is the second Monday in September each year.

When may I submit my application?

Submit your application during August or early September, before the deadline.

How many students are accepted?

There are between 12 and 16 places in the program each year. Some of those are filled by returning students.

How are applications evaluated?

Students must agree to each of the commitments on the application, provide their own transportation to ASU, and have plenty of time to participate. Most students admitted have excellent grades, so the essay is what sets students apart. Successful applicants have a strong interest in science, demonstrated by formal or informal involvement in science, and some understanding of the process of science. Clear thinking and writing, as demonstrated in the essay, is also important.

How will I find out if I was accepted?

You will receive an email within two weeks of the application deadline. Do not telephone to ask about your status.

How long does the program last?

The program runs from September through March. Students may continue to work with their mentors after March by individual arrangement.

Is there a summer program?

No.

What will I be doing in the program?

You will be mentored by an ASU scientist to conduct original research on a problem that you formulate yourself. Your problem will relate to your mentor’s research. You will do background work during fall semester (reading, learning about experimental design, lab equipment, and lab techniques) and come up with a question to investigate by December. In January and February you will conduct your experiment. In March you’ll present your research to the SCENE group and compete in the Arizona Science and Engineering Fair

What is the science fair?

The fair is a regional competition affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair. It is held annually in Phoenix in late March or early April. The fair offers financial awards and recognition, and the chance to discuss your work with judges who are professional scientists. Most SCENE students enjoy the fair and nearly all win at least one award–see Award Winners.

How much time will I have to spend on the program?

Students work at least six hours each week on their projects and should expect to spend even more time during the second semester. Your specific schedule will be set by your mentor and depend on the requirements of your project. For example, you might work two Saturdays a month for a full day each, or you might meet with your mentor once a week for two hours and do four hours of work at home or in the lab.

Where will I be working?

You will be working in an ASU science lab, at a field site, or both. You might be able to do some work at home.

What are the projects?

Projects change every year according to the research interests of the scientists who are mentors. You’ll receive a list of available projects with your acceptance letter. See Sample Projects and Sample Posters for examples of what students have done in recent years.

Will I get to choose my mentor?

In most cases, you will. We try to place you with your first-choice mentor, but it is not always possible to do so. Returning students receive first choice of mentors.

What else can I do with my work?

You might want to enter the Arizona Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, the Westinghouse Competition, or the Intel Science Talent Search . Some students have published papers in academic journals or presented their work at professional conferences.