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Appalachian STEM Academy - High School

Science
Computer Science
Math
Engineering

Oak Ridge Associated Universities

Oak Ridge, TN2 weeks

The Appalachian STEM Academy is a fully funded, two-week residential summer program hosted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy facility, for high school students aged 16 and older from Appalachian counties. Participants work directly with award-winning scientists and researchers on hands-on group projects in science, mathematics, computer science, and technology. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony, giving students a meaningful milestone to mark their experience with real-world research. It is a rare opportunity for aspiring STEM students to gain exposure to professional research at one of the most respected national laboratories in the country, completely free of charge.

Visit orau.org

Skills You'll Build

Scientific Research

Designing studies, testing hypotheses, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

Problem Solving

Breaking down a challenge and working through it methodically to a solution.

Lab Techniques

Running experiments safely and accurately using real scientific equipment and procedures.

Critical Thinking

Evaluating information carefully before drawing a conclusion or making a decision.

Team Leadership

Guiding a group toward a shared goal and keeping everyone moving together.

Mathematical Modeling

Using equations and formulas to represent and predict real-world situations.

Related Careers

Chemical Engineer

Students work on hands-on science and engineering projects with researchers at a national laboratory.

Software Engineer

Program includes computer science projects guided by award-winning scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Data Scientist

Students engage in guided science and math projects involving analysis and applied research methodologies.

Medical Researcher

Two-week intensive hands-on laboratory experience mirrors early career scientific research and discovery.

Quick Facts

Grade Levels
10th - 12th
Format
In-Person
Time Commitment
Full-time, 2 weeks
Best For
STEM-focused high school students

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