In-Person Engineering Research Program with a Columbia Lecturer
Join our hands-on, project-based program where high school students bring mechanical and electrical engineering concepts to life by building fully autonomous legged robots. This in-person program blends theory, design, and practical application, giving students a head start in robotics, mechatronics, and autonomous programming.
Meet Our Faculty Advisor
Dr. V has an extensive background in mechanical and biomedical engineering, focusing on robotics, tissue mechanics, and translational medicine. His research includes innovative projects in vision correction, early osteoarthritis treatment, and biomaterials, as well as collaborations with Columbia University Medical Center.
At Scholar Launch, he has mentored many students with interests in mechanics and robotics, guiding them through hands-on projects and independent research.
What's included
Full robot kit (Arduino board, servo motors, line-tracking sensors, structural components, and all wiring)
Access to Onshape and all needed software
All instructional and reading materials
One-on-one TA support on academic writing and publication, available between sessions
Logistics support & daily program tracking by Scholar Launch education team
Program Deliverables
A fully built and programmed autonomous robot
A completed research paper
Highly possible to get a Letter of Recommendation from professor
Possible publication in peer-reviewed journal
Certificate of completion from Scholar Launch
A high-quality project for your college applications and competitions
Time & Location
June 19 - July 3
Queensborough Community College
How to Apply
Step 1: Submit Intake Form & Video
Fill out the intake form on website. We also encourage you to submit a 1-3 min video introducing yourself.
Step 2: Online Interview
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 15 minute online interview with our admissions team.
Step 3: Admission
Admitted students sign their program agreement and confirm enrollment by making payment. Then the journey begins!
FAQs
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Not at all. The program is designed to be a genuine starting point. Every tool, concept, and skill will be taught from the ground up. What matters is that you're curious and willing to put in the work.
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We are accepting no more than 10 students. That means your instructors will know your work, your TA will know where you're stuck, and the experience will feel collaborative rather than like sitting in a lecture hall.
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Your sessions with professor are three times a week for one hour each. Outside of sessions, you can expect to spend 2-3 hours daily reviewing materials or refining your builds. Your TA is available for one-on-one support between sessions if you need it.