University of Illinois Research Apprentice Program (RAP) Scholarship

Geographic Scope: University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES)

Overview:
CSIFT supports the Research Apprentice Program, a campus-based summer program designed to expose high school students—particularly those from ethnic minority and low socioeconomic backgrounds—to educational and professional opportunities in food, human, and environmental sciences.

Focus Areas:

• High school student development
• STEM education and career pathways
• Underrepresented student recruitment
• Food science exposure

Target Population:

• Urban high school students
• Students from ethnic minority backgrounds
• Students from low socioeconomic backgrounds

Program Structure:

• RAP I: Four-week team experience for freshmen and sophomores with projects in partnership with ACES and sponsoring companies
• RAP II: Eight-week campus experience for older high school students performing research projects under faculty and graduate student guidance

Eligibility:

• High school students in first or second year (RAP I)
• Older high school students (RAP II)
• Demonstrated interest in STEM and agricultural sciences

Award/Support Details:

• CSIFT funds used for program equipment, supplies, and graduate student mentor stipends
• Ongoing annual support
• Over $120,000 contributed by CSIFT over nearly three decades

Program Impact:

• Between 1988-2014: Nearly 1,250 high school students participated
• 60% African American, 35% Latino participants
• 98% of RAP II seniors enrolled in four-year colleges
• 60% of RAP participants enrolled at UIUC, many selecting ACES majors