Our Review of the Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program

Research programs for high school students are a great way to strengthen your college applications and grow academically. These programs let you explore your interests in depth, develop new skills, and show that you’re ready for advanced academic work. In many cases, you’ll get to work with professional researchers or contribute to real-world research projects—experiences that can set you apart in a competitive admissions process.

By seeking out, applying to, and attending a competitive research program, you can demonstrate your ability to take initiative and pursue your interests. These are qualities highly sought after by top colleges. 

In this blog, we will review one such program—the Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program.

What is the Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program?

Hosted by the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California, the Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in advanced scientific research. The program is an 8-week paid internship that allows you to work one-on-one with Salk scientists on research. You will develop advanced STEM skills, including wet lab techniques, bioinformatics, data analysis, and science communication. You will also participate in seminars, workshops, biotech site visits, and other enrichment activities in addition to your research. At the end of the 8 weeks, you will present your research projects to your mentors, peers, and families. 

Who is eligible to apply?

You must be:

• A San Diego County resident who has completed the most recent semester of high school at a public or private high school within San Diego County

• At least 16 years of age on or before June 16

• Able to commit to 30-40 hours per week to the program from June 16 through August 8

• Able to provide your own transportation to the Salk Institute campus

• At a minimum grade point average of 2.75

You must also have successfully completed at least one year of high school-level chemistry and biology. Upon acceptance, applicants under 18 must be able to obtain a work permit from their school. 

What is the cost of the program?

The program is free to attend. Public transit stipends are also available for students who are unable to secure reliable transportation to and from the Salk Institute campus. 

How can I apply?

The program application will open on December 6 and close on March 5. The application will likely include essays, teacher recommendations, and academic transcripts.

The program runs from June 16 to August 8. 

Is it prestigious?

The Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program is considered a very prestigious program for high school students. Its affiliation with the Salk Institute and its association with leading researchers add significant weight to its reputation. Admissions are highly competitive. Attending this program can be a significant boost to your academic and professional resume.

Pros and Cons of attending the Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program

Pros

1. You will receive one-on-one mentorship

During the program, you will complete a research project while working one-on-one with a mentor. This allows for highly individualized and personalized learning that can be great for your development. Instead of addressing a general class, your teacher will spend all their time with you, guiding you through complex research problems and techniques and giving you a glimpse into a research career. These mentors will likely be leading scientists at one of the world’s foremost research institutions, making them a great connection to have even after the program ends.

2. You will gain research experience

Instead of learning in a classroom, you will be in the lab working under the direct supervision of a mentor. You will contribute to ongoing research projects, gaining experience in tasks such as DNA analysis, microscopy, cell imaging, and computational biology. The opportunity to work in a professional lab setting is rare for high school students. 

3. It is fully funded

As a paid internship, the program is free for all selected participants. Many summer programs cost thousands of dollars. The Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program is entirely cost-free and even pays students for their work. This is an excellent opportunity to participate in a prestigious program, ensuring accessibility for students from all backgrounds. 

4. It makes for a great addition to your resume

The Salk Institute is renowned for its research in the life sciences. Being selected for this program signals to colleges that you have exceptional promise and outstanding research skills. The program on your resume indicates that you have collaborated with leading researchers, conducted advanced research, and performed in a rigorous environment.

Cons

1. The admissions process is competitive

The program is highly selective, admitting only a small pool of applicants. Students may not want to dedicate time and effort to applying when their chances of being accepted are low. 

2. Eligibility is limited by geography

This program is only open to students who reside in San Diego County. Students are also responsible for their own transportation to and from the Salk Institute campus every day of the program. This means high school students outside the county will have to find another program to apply to, and students who don’t have a reliable means of transportation might find it logistically difficult to attend. 

3. The program focuses only on the life sciences and molecular biology 

The program is centered on life sciences and molecular biology research. This means that the program offers limited opportunities for students interested in other STEM disciplines, such as physics, engineering, or computer science. These students may want to look for another program that better aligns with their interests. 

Is it legit?

Yes! The Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars Program is a very well-regarded research program for high school students. Its affiliation with the prestigious Salk Institute, combined with its focus on rigorous research and one-on-one mentorship, makes it a very valuable opportunity for students interested in the life sciences. For students in San Diego interested in this field, this program could be a valuable experience that opens doors to future academic opportunities. 

One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

Image Source - Salk Institute Logo