VOICES OF EXPERIENCE

“I was very much enthusiastic that not only was I able to to increase my knowledge of microbiology, but I was able to do so with hands-on activities that stimulated my mind.” —Christopher O’Donoghue

“It is apparent that their love of science was enhanced through the program. They speak proudly of their research. These students returned to pursue engineering careers. Those that have been fortunate enough to participate have told others about their wonderful experience, therefore, I have students inquiring if such an opportunity would be available for them.” —Dawn Sturman
 (high school science teacher)

"This has definitely strengthened my love for physics. I decided to take Honors Physics instead of regular physics because of this job. I think I will go on to take AP Physics and am considering it strongly as one of my career choices. I am already a step ahead of my physics class. It is pretty much summed up by our motto in the physics lab: 'Physics Rules!'" —William Lavery (apprenticed at University of Colorado at Colorado Springs)

"Without a doubt, my REAP experience has been a valuable one, and it has had a profound influence on my life." —Cyrus Monroe (apprenticed at Florida State University)

“I was pleasantly surprised by how much I learned the end of the first week alone. I expected lecture-type teaching and much busy work, and [was] surprised by the freedom we had on the projects. Due to my passion for math, I [took] a lot from this program.”
—Sanjiv Goli

“The Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program has been an awesome experience for me. I learned new concepts and skills, and relearned a few I’d forgotten, while hanging out with really cool people. It was the environment school tries to be. I’m definitely looking at a Math and Statistics major in college.” —Anthony Kuhns (apprenticed at Florida State University)

TAKE ACTION
Apply for a REAP apprenticeship via the AEOP website.
After applying, contact Irene O’Mara (REAP Director) at (603) 228-4530 or email her at renie@aas-world.org.

AFFILIATE UNIVERSITIES
The REAP program places apprentice students into over 50 universities around the country.

The REAP Experience

The Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP) provides opportunities for all high school students, including underrepresented groups, to gain hands-on work experience in scientific research and development programs on a university level. REAP students are exposed to real world scientific research and are able to see themselves making a living as scientists and researchers. Selected students are awarded a stipend for their summer research experience in a university lab.

The REAP Experience is designed to:

• Motivate students toward a career in science, mathematics, or technology.

• Expand students’ background and understanding of scientific research.

• Engage students’ active participation into the philosophy and objectives of scientific research.

• Expose students to science experiences not readily available in high school.

• Introduce students to the real world of research in these fields.

• Partner students with faculty mentors to support current and future professional growth and development.

On-the-Job Training

High school students accepted for apprenticeships will be paid during work periods and will work directly under a mentor scientist or engineer who will provide guidance on day-to-day job activities and be available to assist in providing information on career opportunities in science, math, engineering and technology. Entry apprentices are to be paid in accordance with student minimum wage guidelines.

Apprentices are placed in research situations appropriate to their skill level, permitting them to exert tangible efforts towards recognizable goals as participating members of a team. They contribute to the work at hand so as to understand their contribution and, in general, understand what was accomplished.

The Founding and Purpose of REAP

Established in 1980, the Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP) was designed cooperatively between the Academy and the Army Research Office to encourage economically and socially disadvantaged high school students to pursue careers in science, math, engineering and technology by offering a hands-on experience in research and development to those who desire to continue their education in these fields. Over the years, the criteria has changed, for example, any and all high school students may now apply and be chosen. REAP apprentices participate in summer cooperative work-study and research programs under the supervision of university mentors. The result is that up to 90% of REAP participants go on to pursue science, math, engineering or technology studies at the post-secondary level.      

Funding and Administration

REAP is administered by the Academy of Applied Science using grants provided by the Army Research Office and sponsors about 120 students at over 50 colleges and universities nationwide each year. The Academy draws on extensive experience in successfully managing and administering youth science programs with a specific focus on science and science research—including the Junior Science and Humanities Symposia Program and the Young Inventors' Program. The ultimate goal of the Academy is to provide quality programming and services which meet or exceed the expectations of both the funding agency and the program participants.

Apprentice Selection Process

     The basic criterion for selection of participants is the potential shown for pursuing careers in STEM. Factors considered in selecting apprentices:

1) previous demonstrated abilities and interests in science and engineering (for example, extracurricular technical activities such as science clubs and science fairs); and/or

2) potential for a successful career in the field as indicated from overall scholastic achievement, aptitude and interest areas;

3) recommendations of high school teachers and administrative personnel; and 4) interviews with prospective participants.

Interested students apply directly on the AEOP website. After applying, contact Irene O’Mara (REAP Director) at the Academy of Applied Science (603) 228-4530 or email her at renie@aas-world.org.

MORE: We've assembled a collection of frequently asked questions about the REAP program.

If you have a strong interest in the STEM careers, a REAP apprenticeship can be a powerful, direction-defining experience. We encourage you to apply via the AEOP website.