SUMMER RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY FOR HBCU STUDENTS AT UCLA (815 hits)
This summer, UCLA is hosting six students from Howard University, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University as part of the Summer Research and Admission Pathways Program. This initiative aims to introduce talented undergraduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to UCLA's academic environment, immerse them in groundbreaking scientific research, prepare them for graduate school, and encourage their potential return to UCLA for further studies.
The Summer Research and Admission Pathways Program aligns with the UC-HBCU Initiative, which seeks to increase the representation of scholars from HBCUs in UC academic doctoral programs. Over the course of eight weeks, these students are placed in UCLA faculty labs where they engage in hands-on research in fields such as chemistry and biochemistry. They are paired with graduate student mentors who guide them through their research projects, providing crucial support and expertise.
In addition to laboratory work, the program offers a comprehensive educational experience. Participants attend faculty lunch seminars, workshops, and social events designed to enhance their academic and professional skills. They also have the opportunity to visit UC-Santa Barbara, Amgen, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to gain insights into various facets of scientific research and potential career paths in academia and industry.
At the culmination of their summer research, each student will showcase their findings at the UCLA Summer Programs for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) Poster Session. This event not only allows them to present their contributions but also serves as a platform to interact with peers, faculty, and researchers from diverse backgrounds.
The program aims to advance the academic and research capabilities of its participants and build lasting connections between UCLA and HBCUs. By nurturing these talented undergraduates and exposing them to UCLA's research community, the university hopes to inspire them to pursue graduate studies and potentially contribute to the advancement of science and academia in the future. The success of previous programs underscores the effectiveness of such initiatives in fostering diversity, equity, and excellence in higher education and scientific research.
