The Community-Academic Scholars Initiative matches undergraduates with an academic mentor and a community partner to collaborate over the summer on a project designed to directly benefit community members served by the partner organization. We are pleased to announce that the Summer 2024 student application period is now open. The deadline to apply is Feb. 6 at 11:59 p.m.
This year’s program includes 14 powerful projects that address a range of topics including substance addiction recovery, postpartum pain, basalt application in vegetable crops, culturally relevant programs and services, youth development and well-being, autonomous bicycles, environmental justice, indoor air quality, assistive robots in caregiving of older adults, cultural humility and bias, middle school STEM+C learning, local food chains, and accessibility of local businesses. You can read through the project descriptions and the scholar’s role within each project to find projects that most appeal to you and best match your strengths and background.
In addition to developing applied research experience, scholars meet weekly to connect with each other, seek guidance from program leaders, and to hear from invited speakers. Scholars also receive a $4000 stipend to offset the cost of housing and/or living expenses during the program.
If you are interested in applying to be a Community-Academic Scholar, be sure to review eligibility and program requirements on the website. We also encourage you to view the info session recording for application insights and tips. Please direct any questions you may have to Brandi Barnes (bbarnes@illinois.edu), and be sure to submit your application no later than 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6.
