Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP)

Funder: U.S. Army Research Office (with grants supporting over 130 students)

Program Type: Hands-on apprenticeship program with summer research experience

Established: 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. Apprentices participate in annual summer cooperative work-study and research programs under the design and supervision of university mentors.

Purpose:

• Encourage economically and socially disadvantaged high school students to pursue careers in math, science and technology
• Provide hands-on research and development experience
• Support post-secondary education in math, science, and technology fields

Program Outcomes

• Up to 90% of REAP participants pursue math, science or technology curricula at the post-secondary level

REAP Experience Benefits

• Motivates students towards a career in science, mathematics or technology
• Expands students' background and understanding of scientific research
• Provides insights into the philosophy and objectives of scientific research
• Provides challenging science experience not readily available in high school
• Exposes students to the real world of science and mathematical careers
• Provides valuable role models through interaction with faculty mentors

Eligibility

• Target: Economically and socially disadvantaged high school students
• Application Process: Interested students do not apply directly to REAP but must be screened and recommended by high school teachers

Participation Structure

• Current Scope: Over 130 students at 68 colleges and universities nationwide
• Academic Year: Annual summer cooperative work-study and research programs
• Mentorship: University mentors design and supervise apprenticeships

University Participation

• Universities view REAP as an asset to their communities
• Brings bright young students to interact with faculty
• Provides valuable support to research projects
• Enriches campuses through student-faculty interaction

Role of Academy of Applied Science

• Administers the Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program since its inception (1980)
• Manages sub-grants and university participation
• Provides quality programming and services meeting or exceeding expectations of funding agency and participants
• Draws on extensive experience managing youth science programs including JSHS and Young Inventors' Program

Geographic Scope

• National (68 colleges and universities across the U.S.)

Contact Information

• Academy of Applied Science
• 24 Warren Street
• Concord, New Hampshire 03301
• Tel: (603) 228-4530

How to Get Involved

• For Universities: Contact the Academy of Applied Science at the address above
• For Students: Contact your high school teacher for recommendation/screening

How to Apply

For Students:

1. Students do not apply directly to REAP
2. Must be screened and recommended by high school teachers
3. Contact your high school teacher for nomination/recommendation

For Universities:

1. Contact the Academy of Applied Science
2. Complete participation requirements
3. Develop mentorship structure and research projects for apprentices