Becoming a SURI High School Scholar

The SURI Scholar Program is a summer-long, immersive research experience at Farmingdale State College designed for high school juniors and seniors who are ready to explore hands-on, real-world research in a college environment.

During this 6-week program you will work alongside FSC faculty and college students on authentic research or creative projects. This leading pre-college research program offers high school students an opportunity to:

• Experience college-level research and academic culture
• Build technical and analytical skills beyond the high school classroom
• Explore potential majors and careers through hands-on learning
• Strengthen college applications and essays with meaningful experience

Each summer, SURI High School Scholars are placed into faculty-mentored research clusters across STEM, health sciences, business, technology, arts, and humanities. Depending on your project, you might:

• Assist with experiments or lab work
• Design or prototype a creative or technical project
• Collect, organize, and analyze data
• Conduct background research
• Support community-focused collaborative projects

SURI uses a small cohort model consisting of:

• 2 Farmingdale SURI Fellows (college students)
• 2 SURI Scholars (high school student)

This structure gives you close mentorship, the chance to learn directly from college students, and a supportive research team where questions, curiosity, and collaboration are encouraged.

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Program Costs

Participation in the SURI Scholar Program includes a $350 program fee, which provides students with an exceptional, college-level research experience at Farmingdale State College. This investment gives high school scholars access to opportunities that are typically reserved for undergraduates and early-career college students.

The program fee covers:

• Placement in a faculty-mentored research project
• Weekly guidance and one-on-one support from expert faculty and college researchers
• All workshops, seminars, and enrichment sessions held throughout the summer
• Full participation in the SURI Expo, where students present their work
• Program materials, resources, and administrative support needed to ensure a high-quality experience

Is SURI Right for Me? 

SURI is an excellent fit for motivated high school students who:

• Are entering 11th or 12th grade
• Enjoy exploring ideas, solving problems, and learning in hands-on ways
• Want to preview college expectations and campus life
• Are ready to challenge themselves academically
• Want to build a competitive college application profile
• You do not need prior research experience- only interest, reliability, and a willingness to learn.

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Your Role

As a Scholar, you take on the role of a developing researcher.
You will:

• Contribute to real project tasks appropriate for your level
• Meet regularly with your faculty mentor and your research cluster
• Learn from FSC college students while completing your own assignments
• Participate in workshops focused on research skills and college preparation
• Ask questions, collaborate, and take responsibility for your learning

You’ll also complete a Learning Agreement outlining:

• Your summer goals
• Your expected weekly schedule
• Your responsibilities within the project

Throughout the summer, you will log your hours, reflect on your learning, and actively participate in your cluster.

 

SURI Scholar Experience

SURI Scholars selected for this program must commit to all 6-weeks of the program. Furthermore, Scholars agree to pay the full amount of the program by the start of the SURI program. Scholars will also be required to complete and return legal documentation allowing them to participate in the program. This documentation must be completed and returned to the program coordinator by February 9th. Failure to comply with any of these requirements may result in your termination in the SURI project.

 

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Application Process & Timeline

Applications Open:

Eligibility:

• Be a rising junior or senior in high school
• Have a strong academic record (B average recommended)
• Demonstrate interest in research or hands-on learning
• Be able to commit to the full duration of the program
• Have parent/guardian permission form signed and submitted at time of application
• Pay the $750 program fee upon acceptance

The Process:

Step 1: Review available SURI Research clusters
Step 2: Submit online applications
Step 3: Upload required materials
Step 4: Ask a teacher/counselor to submit a recommendation letter
Step 5: Receive your decision
Step 6: Submit payment and parent/guardian consent to confirm your spot

Application Requirements: 

Students must submit a Resume or activity list
Students must submit a 1-2 page personal statement specifically addressing:  

• What are your current career and/or research interests?  
• Why you want to participate in the SURI Program?
• What are your future educational and career goals and how does training as a research fit with your goals?
• What are the academic, volunteer or work experiences that have best prepared you for this experience?
• How will SURI support your future goals?

Apply Here

                                                     Applications will Open on Monday, January 5th
                                            Applications will Close on Friday, January 30th at 11:59pm

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