Is the program running next summer?
Yes! We’re excited to announce our collaboration with the College and Career Lab in NYC and Project RISE in Boston for next summer. The College and Career Lab is an outreach initiative where students explore diverse career paths, including but not limited to science. Held at NYU, the program is completely free. To learn more about our Boston-based collaborator, Project Rise, click here.
How can I express interest in the program?
Answer: Fill out our Interest Form. This allows us to keep you updated on future opportunities and helps us gauge demand for the program.
Is the program free? Yes, we are a free program.
Who is eligible to apply for the Brain and Spine Scholars program?
Answer: Middle and high school students are eligible to apply. We prioritize applicants from underrepresented and underserved communities.
Is this program only available in NYC?
Answer: We ran our first program at NYU with students from across New York City. Next summer, we are expanding to Boston and possibly Baltimore via John Hopkins. We plan to expand our reach to other states and partner with additional organizations in the future.
How long does the program last, and what is the schedule like?
Answer: The program’s duration runs from Monday to Friday, with sessions from 10:00 am to 11:30 am and 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. Each day features a mix of interactive activities, presentations, and hands-on experiences. However, these times will most likely change depending on the organization.
How many students are accepted into the program each year?
Answer: The number of accepted students may vary each year based on capacity and resources. We aim to create an intimate and engaging learning environment to maximize the experience for each participant. In the summer of 2024, we had around 60 students.
When was the program established?
Answer: The planning for the program began in 2023 by Mac MacKay and Yllka Valdez, and in 2024, we were fortunate to collaborate with College and Career Lab.
Do I need to have a background in science to apply?
Answer: No prior background in science is required. The program is designed to introduce middle and high school students to various topics in science and medicine, regardless of their current knowledge level.
I cannot attend the program but still want to learn about neuroscience/science. Is there any way I can access study materials or videos?
Answer: Absolutely! We have listed some links below with videos and information for those who want to learn more or for parents who wish to introduce their child to new topics.
Is there a virtual component?
Answer: Currently, we do not have a virtual component. However, if you are interested in a virtual option, let us know! You can fill out the application form in the “Apply” tab or email us through the “Contact Us” tab.
Is Brain and Spine Scholars an independent organization?
Answer: Yes, we are an independent organization, but we are open to collaborations with other groups. Our goal is to educate and inspire students by exposing them to various fields.