Academy of Applied Science

Research and Engineering Program

Established in 1980, The Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP) is designed to encourage economically and socially disadvantaged high school students to pursue careers in math, science and technology by offering a hands-on experience in research and development to those who desire to continue their education in these fields.

The apprentices participate in annual summer cooperative work-study and research programs under the design and supervision of university mentors. Experience has shown that up to 90% of REAP participants go on to pursue math, science or technology curricula at the post-secondary level.

With grants from the research offices of the U.S. Army, the Academy currently sponsors over 130 students at 68 colleges and universities nationwide.


? The REAP Experience: --motivates students towards a career in science, mathematics or technology; --expands students' background and understanding of scientific research; --provides students with insights into the philosophy and objectives of scientific research, and --provides students with a challenging science experience that is not readily available in high school.	HOW TO BECOME INVOLVED IN REAP Interested students do not apply directly to REAP but must be screened and recommended by high school teachers . Universities that wish to participate should contact the Academy of Applied Science at 24 Warren St., Concord N.H. 03301, (603)-228-4530 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The purpose of the REAP program and the sponsoring involvement of the U.S. Army is to ensure availability and improve the quality of people who are qualified and oriented to perform professional and support work in defense life and physical sciences. more MANAGEMENT The Academy of Applied Science has administered the Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program since its inception. The US Army Research Office provided the Project Description. 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 in managing and administering REAP is to provide quality programming and services which meet or exceed the expectations of both the funding agency and the program participants. SUB GRANTS and UNIVERSITY PARTICIPATION Universities view REAP as an asset to their communities, enriching their campuses by bringing bright young students to interact with faculty and providing valuable support to research projects. more APPRENTICES REAP changes the attitude of student participants towards science and mathematical careers. Many have only a general idea of what a career in these areas entails, and little or no contact with adults doing this work. REAP student participants are exposed to the real world of these careers and are able to see themselves as scientists and researchers. more MENTORS Key to the success of the REAP experience is the mentor working with the student. Mentors support professional growth and development, which in turn empowers the student. The faculty members recruited for REAP provide excellent role models and students are able to interact with some of the best faculty in the country. more SUCCESSES REAP provides a tremendous benefit to all participants. The school and student benefit in terms of motivation, exposure to scientific careers, and positive role models. The universities have bright young people in their labs and realize they are providing them with experiences not normally available to them. more