Research Interest Exploration Program

Explore your academic interests with this 8-week, multidisciplinary course.

 

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Having a clear field of interest can help students determine their academic and career goals in a much easier manner. Our Research Interest Exploration Program, or RIEP, introduces students to multiple academic disciplines so that they can better understand where their interests and strengths lie.

Students will learn advanced knowledge and skills from recorded sessions delivered by high-ranking college professors and instructors who are experts at presenting complex information in an accessible manner to pre-college students. They will also work closely with a Program Faculty Advisor who will guide them through each of the subjects and tasks.

Students will create a portfolio of work across disciplines that will help them in their future endeavors. They will also produce a Research Proposal in the discipline they are interested in the most.

 

Professor Introductions

 

Applications

Target Student: Students in 11th grade or below

Generally starts on the third week of April, June ,and September.

Tuition: $800


G.G.

Professor, School of Mathematics, Georgia Institute of Technology

Director of Undergraduate Studies, School of Mathematics, Georgia Institute of Technology

R.C.

Emeritus Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego

Published 90+ Academic Papers with over 14,900 citations

R.B.

Lecturer, Department of Psychology, Princeton University

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Yale University; Licensed Clinical Psychologist

A.A.

EdD, Health Education, Columbia University
15+ years working for nonprofits and local governments

G.Y.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology, Pomona College

Ph.D. in Sociology, University of California, Los Angeles

M.K.

Research Associate Professor, Department of Earth & Environment, Boston University

Published 100+ scholarly articles with over 5,300 citations

I.G.

Adjunct Professor, Loyola Marymount University

Adjunct Professor, Pepperdine University

R.M.

Professor of Global Liberal Studies, NYU Paris

Ph.D., History of Religions, University of Chicago

Program Faculty Advisor Introduction

Zach M.

PhD Researcher, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD

Graduate Research Assistant, Shark Lab, California State University, Long Beach

M.S. Biological Sciences, California State University, Long Beach

B.S. in Natural Resources (Aquatic Ecology Concentration),University of Vermont

Zach's research focuses on trophic connections for juvenile white sharks using eDNA. He has been featured in the media for his work tracking white sharks after shark attacks. He is an experienced instructor in interdisciplinary research and researcher in marine ecosystems.

Subjects Covered

Applied Math

Neuroscience

Clinical Psychology

Earth & Environmental Science

Global and Public Health

Sociology

Religious Studies

(optional)

International Business

Program Details

  • 7 recorded lectures from professors or instructors of renowned universities

  • 8 live seminars with an expert Program Faculty Advisor

  • Research proposal writing, revisions, and showcase guidance 

  • Cohort size: 5 to 10 students per cohort or 1-on-1

  • Schedule: Generally starts on the third week of April, June ,and September, and lasts for 8 weeks.

  • Time commitments: Around 3 hours per week (including class and homework time) 

  • Target students: Students in 11th grade or below who are able to read and write English fluently and are keen on learning more about different subjects

Course Introduction

Earth and Environmental Sciences

Our professor advises students on recent trends and important research questions in the fields of earth and environmental sciences, through which students can gain an understanding of ecosystems, natural resources, and human impacts on the environment. They learn to analyze environmental issues, develop sustainable solutions, and apply scientific methods to tackle challenges like climate change, pollution, and conservation, fostering skills for informed decision-making and global stewardship.

Neuroscience

Researchers in neuroscience explore the structure and function of the brain and nervous system. Our professor shows students some of the key discoveries in the field including how neurons communicate, how behavior and cognition are influenced by biology, and the mechanisms behind neurological diseases. This field fosters critical thinking and understanding of human behavior, mental health, and neurological disorders.

Psychology

In psychology, students study human behavior, thought processes, and emotions. Our professor highlights the most important mental health, cognition, motivation, and social influences, and discusses how psychologists learn to apply research methods and theories to real-world situations. This field develops critical thinking, empathy, and understanding of individual and group behavior, promoting insights into mental well-being.

Global and Public Health

Students in public health learn about disease prevention, health promotion, and the factors affecting population health. They explore topics like epidemiology, healthcare systems, policy, and environmental impacts on well-being. Our professor talks to students about how the field emphasizes data analysis, community health strategies, and global health challenges, preparing students to address public health issues effectively.

Sociology

In sociology, our professor shows students how experts in the field examine human society, social behavior, and cultural dynamics. They study topics like social inequality, institutions, and group interactions. By analyzing social structures and patterns, students develop a deeper understanding of societal issues, including race, class, gender, and social change, fostering critical thinking about the world around them.

Applied Math

Our professor provides a wealth of examples and resources that show how students in applied mathematics can learn how to use mathematical models and techniques to solve real-world problems. They study areas like statistics, optimization, and differential equations, applying them to fields such as engineering, economics, and biology. The field develops problem-solving, analytical, and computational skills for practical decision-making and innovation.

International Business

In our international business module, students learn how global markets function, focusing on cross-cultural management, international trade, and economic policies. They explore global supply chains, marketing strategies, and financial practices. The field develops skills in negotiation, strategy, and understanding of global economic dynamics, preparing students for careers in international commerce.


Optional: Culture and Society through Religious Studies

In this bonus extra module, our expert professor guides students to understand intersections between different fields in the humanities. In religious studies, students explore diverse belief systems, rituals, and the role of religion in shaping culture and society. They examine religious texts, ethics, and historical contexts, fostering an understanding of global spiritual traditions. This field promotes critical thinking, empathy, and awareness of religion's impact on politics, conflict, and identity.