Stumbled upon the MIT THINK Scholars Program online. It seems like a great opportunity, but I couldn't find a lot of in-depth information about it. How does the program work and what benefits does it give to participating students?
The MIT THINK Scholars Program is a great opportunity that allows high school students to have their innovative project ideas funded and mentored by MIT. The program is an annual educational initiative run by a team of undergraduate students at MIT. It supports ambitious projects with a budget under $1000 that align with STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
Applicants submit a detailed project proposal, and if selected, the scholars receive resources to execute their projects over the summer. The resources include a $1000 grant, mentorship from MIT students for technical guidance and weekly check-ins, and recognition as a THINK Scholar.
Benefits of participating in the program include having a structured way to explore their interest in a specific area of STEM, close mentorship from undergraduates at MIT, and the resources and recognition to execute an innovative project idea. Many students find that participating in the program also strengthens their college applications by demonstrating their ability to think creatively and execute a detailed project. For example, one winning project involved designing a cost-effective, hand-held device that quickly and accurately measures intracranial pressure.
In terms of timing, the applications typically open in late fall and the selected proposals are usually announced early in the following year. The implementation of the projects takes place during the summer vacation. At the end of the summer, the scholars are invited to present their project at MIT - expenses paid.
Do keep in mind that a successful application needs to strike a balance between being ambitious but also feasible. The scholars should demonstrate their passion for their chosen field and clearly articulate how their project contributes to that area. A detailed plan of action, including a timeline and a budget, is also crucial. Be sure to start early to provide ample time for idea refinement and proofreading.
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