Auburn University's Summer Science Institute inspires future STEM leaders through immersive research experience

Sixteen of the state's brightest high school students spent a week living and learning on Auburn University's campus this summer as part of the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM) Outreach office's Summer Science Institute (SSI), an immersive residential program designed to introduce rising juniors and seniors to advanced scientific research and careers in STEM. 

Students are selected through a competitive application process that includes an essay, letter of recommendation, standardized test scores and STEM course grades. The program rewards academic excellence by providing a fully funded weeklong experience made possible through support from National Science Foundation faculty grants. 

Throughout the week, scholars worked alongside Auburn faculty and researchers, using advanced scientific equipment to explore biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics and geosciences through hands-on laboratory investigations and field experiences rarely available in high school classrooms. Scholars also participated in an immersive medical education experience at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) - Auburn, where they completed interactive learning modules led by current medical students and faculty, explored the anatomy laboratory and engaged in activities designed to introduce them to the medical profession. This opportunity was made possible through a partnership with VCOM-Auburn's Summer Enrichment Experience (SEE) Residential Program and marked the second-year SSI scholars participated in the experience.   

Research experiences included capturing and banding wild birds to support ongoing ornithological research, investigating genetically modified foods using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis, studying wetlands during a nighttime herpetology field excursion, exploring Earth surface processes through field-based data collection, observing the sun through a solar telescope and examining human anatomy through cadaver and organ dissections. Students also explored electrochemistry, spectroscopy and lipid science while learning how scientific discoveries translate into real-world applications. 

"The Summer Science Institute gives students the opportunity to work directly with Auburn faculty in research laboratories and field settings, allowing them to gain confidence, discover new interests and begin identifying future career paths," said Jessica Gilpin, Ph.D., assistant director for COSAM Outreach. "Our goal is for every participant to leave inspired by science and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead." 

The experience left a lasting impression on participants. In post-program surveys, every student reported that SSI positively impacted their summer, increased their understanding of STEM careers and helped them better identify potential career paths. 

"I never wanted the camp to end," one participant said. "It was an amazing experience with the best staff. The most impactful part of the program was the bonds I formed." 

Parents also recognized the program's value. 

One parent expressed her gratitude for the program. “SSI was affirming and encouraging for my daughter in every way and is the kind of experience that will make a difference for her in all her days. She learned so much about science academics which will be so valuable.”  

Hosted annually by Auburn University's COSAM Outreach Office, the Summer Science Institute brings together faculty, researchers and staff from across the College of Sciences and Mathematics to provide students with an immersive introduction to scientific research while inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.