Young Scholars Program

Research Apprentice Program I and II (RAP)

Check-In/Orientation

Participants will be staying at Hendrick House (located at 904 W Green, Urbana, IL). Check-in will occur between 10:00 am - 1:00 pm as noted:

RAP I-A Sunday, June 18, 2006
RAP I-B Sunday, July 9, 2006
RAP I-C Sunday, June 18, 2006
RAP II Sunday, June 18, 2006

Persons arriving by car should exit from I-74 on the Lincoln Avenue exit and take Lincoln Avenue south to Green Street; turn right on Green Street. It will be on your immediate right, located at the intersection of Green and Lincoln. Someone there will direct you to the check-in point.

Students arriving by plane or train must contact the program director immediately prior to purchasing the ticket to discuss arrival and departure times and transportation from the airport or train station. Early check-in will be available only for pre-approved early arrivals.

A welcome and orientation session is held at 2:00 pm to meet program staff and to discuss expectations of the summer experience. Parents are encouraged to stay for this session. It will conclude by 4:00 pm. The location of the session will be included in your acceptance mailing.

Program Director:

Dr. Jesse Thompson, Jr., Assistant Dean and Coordinator, Diversity Programs
Office (217) 333-3380
Email: jthomps5@uiuc.edu

Books and Supplies

All materials required by the summer program will be provided.

Mail

Mail should be addressed to:

(Student’s Name)
Research Apprentice Program (I-A, I-B, I-C, or II )
Hendrick House
904 W Green St
Urbana, IL 61801

Program Identification

In order to use certain university facilities, including meal service and the campus shuttle system, each student must have an official program identification with a picture. Each apprentice/scholar will be issued an official program I.D. at the start of the program.

Compensation, Lodging and Meals

All participants are provided lodging, a full six-day meal contract (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and program supplies and materials. Students will be responsible for their meals on Sundays. RAP II students will receive a stipend for up to $1100.00 for laboratory work.

Transportation

The University of Illinois provides an exceptional bus service which can be used by all students. The campus service is free to all RAP students. However, the city service (designated by colors) is free only for University students. Bicycles may be brought to campus and may be helpful for getting to the worksite each day. Bicycles cannot be kept inside the dormitory, and thus a good chain and lock (U-shaped lock, not combination) is highly desirable. Automobiles may not be brought to campus. Participants may not ride in non-program vehicles at any time.

Leaving Campus Area

Students leaving the campus area, outside of designated times, must notify the Program Director. RAP-I Apprentices will be required to stay on campus for the entire period of their program. RAP II students should make plans to leave during the July 4th observed Holiday.

Recreational Opportunity

RAP I apprentices will have limited access to the campus Intramural Physical Education (IMPE) facility. Swimming pools, weight rooms, racquetball and tennis courts are among the many recreational resources available in this outstanding facility. Your resident advisor will have a handout on IMPE hours. RAP II apprentices may request summer IMPE passes.

Items to Bring

• Quarters for the Coin Operated Washing Machines & Dryers
• Bed linens are provided, but participants must furnish their own towels and toiletries
• Alarm Clock
• Umbrella
• Travelers Checks or an ATM card is recommended by the Program Director for access to cash.

Dress Code

Because RAP I is a program that introduces high school students to various careers and exposes students to major corporate enterprises, there are dress and behavior expectations that all RAP I students must meet.

The appearance of RAP students is very important to the overall impression of the University of Illinois, The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, the RAP programs, and yourself as talented young people to both people you will meet both on campus and off-campus. Students are expected to dress appropriately based on the dress code restrictions of the company we visit. If not dressed appropriately, students will be asked to change clothes, and/or will not be permitted to participate on the field trip for that day.

Acceptable Items:

• Jeans
• Skirts
• Dresses
• Gym Shoes
• Casual Shoes
• Cotton Twill Pants
• Casual Shirts
• Polo type shirts with collar
• Dress T-shirts
• Dress Shoes

Non-Acceptable Items:

• Too baggy pants/jeans that expose underwear
• Too tight pants/jeans/skirts
• Very short shorts
• Too short skirts/dresses that are more than 5 inches from the knee
• Low-cut tops, mesh or tank tops
• Tops that show the midriff (stomach area)
• T-shirts with pictures or slogans
• Do-rags
• Sandals or flip-flops

Conduct

It is expected that all RAP I students will carry themselves in a respectful, courteous manner both on-campus and off-campus. On corporate visits and in the classroom the expectation is that you will listen to all presentations, ask appropriate questions, maintain self respect and be respectful of others by using appropriate speaking volume, tone and language, controlling physical contact (no playing around) and using respectful body language. Please get your proper rest the night before so as to not embarrass yourself or others in the program by falling asleep during presentations.

Medical Treatment

Any needed medical treatment for RAP I and RAP II students will occur at Carle Clinic/Hospital, a large medical facility in Urbana. Workmen's Compensation coverage would likely be applicable for any program related injury. For illnesses where medical attention is necessary, charges for medical care and/or prescription drugs will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Carle Clinic will provide insurance claims which can be filed with any group and/or private insurance carrier. Students should bring copies of any pertinent insurance coverage information.

End-Of-Program Presentations

Parents and students are reminded of the end-of-program receptions. Students will receive certificates and make brief presentations. Details will be provided at orientation. Semi-formal attire is required by students for their reception.

June 17 - August 4, 2006

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) is pleased to invite applications from previous RAP I students and other high school juniors of under served groups and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in the RAP II summer program.

Program Description

RAP II provides an intensive seven-week laboratory and academic enrichment experience for rising high school seniors with interests in further exploring careers in the food, agricultural and environmental sciences. Students are placed into laboratories where they conduct projects designed to build on interest in math, science, engineering and business. Some examples of laboratories in which students might be placed are plant genetics, animal physiology, plant tissue culture, nutritional sciences, food chemistry, food engineering, child development, agricultural marketing, computer imaging, and environmental studies. Students with animal health interests will be placed in labs in Animal Sciences or Veterinary Medicine. The program is designed to focus on the application of math, science and communication skills, utilizing computers and technology to enhance the critical thinking abilities of participants. A formal paper, oral presentation and a poster of each laboratory project are required at the end of the program.

Eligibility

Priority is given to those students who were participants in the Research Apprentice Program’s RAP I - Career Exploration Component. Applications are invited from all groups, especially those considered to be under-served in the food, human and environmental systems, such as African Americans, Puerto Ricans, Mexican Americans, other Latino/as, and Native Americans. Any students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation

Those students selected to participate in the program will reside in residence halls under the supervision of college staff and residence hall counselors. The costs of summer housing, meals, (except for Sundays) activities, and supplies are provided by the program. An $1100.00 stipend is paid to the student upon completion of the program.

Application Process

The application process consists of completing a student information form, a teacher recommendation form and sending a transcript. Only electronically filled or typed forms will be accepted. Handwritten or incomplete forms will not be considered. Application packets are due by March 1, 2007.

Download an application packet

All applicants will be interviewed via phone or in person between March 1-March 15, 2007. Notification of selections will take place by April 1, 2007. Selected students will be mailed other forms to be returned before May 1, 2007. Participants must present a state issued identification card to participate in RAP. Inquiries may be directed to:

Dr. Jesse Thompson, Jr.
Research Apprentice Program
UIUC - College of ACES
1301 W Gregory Drive, Room 109
Urbana, Illinois 61801
Phone: (217) 333-3380
Email: jthomps5@uiuc.edu

Additional Information

RAP and YSP participants should review the Basic Program Information page for program specifics about housing, orientation, meals, books, medical treatment, what to bring, and more!

Program I-A: June 17 - July 7, 2007
Program I-B: July 8 - July 29, 2007
Program I-C: June 17– June 30, 2007

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) is pleased to invite applications from current high school freshmen and sophomores of under-served and economically disadvantaged groups to participate in the Research Apprentice Program I (RAP-I). Described below are the three components of the program.

Research Apprentice Program I-A

Business, Science and Technology Component
June 17– July 7, 2007

RAP I-A is an intensive three-week career exploration and academic enrichment experience sponsored by the Archer Daniels Midland Company which focuses on career awareness activities related to business, science and engineering career pathways related to the food, human and environmental science fields. Participants participate in a series of visits to ADM facilities where they will attend seminars and engage in special learning activities. Students work in teams to solve problems designed by the ADM staff. Students will also be involved in special sessions focused on improving math, writing and basic computer skills. At the end of the program, teams will present to program staff, fellow participants, and ADM staff, the solution to their projects. Special awards will be given to recognize outstanding team presentations as well as individual merit. (Click here to see the outline of the schedule for RAP 1-A)

Research Apprentice Program I-B

Business, Science and Biotechnology Component
July 8 – July 29, 2007

RAP I-B is an intensive three-week career exploration and academic enrichment experience which focuses on career awareness activities related to business, biotechnology and engineering career pathways related to the food, human and environmental science fields. Participants will participate in on site visits to corporate facilities, attend seminars, and engage in special learning activities designed with program sponsors; Cargill, Inc., Pioneer Hi-Bred International, and John Deere Company. Students are placed in teams to solve problems designed by each company. The Cargill teams engage in learning activities to better understand products and services within Cargill's agricultural services, food ingredients and applications business units solving business and animal health related issues. The Pioneer teams learn more about plant genetics, breeding and other biotechnology related issues through activities conducted in research and development facilities. Students also take mini-courses to test math, writing and computer skills. At the end of the program, each team presents to program staff, fellow participants and program sponsors the solution to their projects. Special awards are given to recognize outstanding team project presentations as well as individual merit. (Click here to see the outline of the schedule for RAP 1-B)

Research Apprentice Program I-C

Children, Families and Educational Component
June 17– June 30, 2007

RAP I-C is an intensive two-week career exploration and academic enrichment experience which focuses on awareness of careers related to children, families, education and communication. Participants will participate in visits and engage in discussion with professionals at settings such as museums, schools, daycare centers, hospitals and other related facilities. Special learning activities have been developed by staff in the Department of Human and Community Development at the University of Illinois to help participants to gain an understanding of the various careers paths associated with areas of interest related to families and community. Participants will be placed in teams to solve human science related problems. Participants also take mini-courses to test math, writing and computer skills. At the end of the program, each team presents to program staff, fellow participants and program sponsors the solution to their projects. Special awards are given to recognize outstanding team project presentations as well as individual merit. (Click here to see the outline of the schedule for RAP 1-C)

The Research Apprentice Program I offers:

• Free housing and an 18 meals-per-week plan
• Hands-on mini-laboratory exercises focusing on math and science skills
• Interesting seminars from outstanding business leaders and scientists
• Field trips to gain an a better understanding of the application of math, science and technology
• Development of team work and critical thinking skills
• Mentoring, career development, college counseling
• Improvement of basic computer skills
• Opportunities to develop new friends and improve social skills

Eligibility

Successful applicants are:

• primarily from traditionally under-served ethnic minority groups and economically disadvantaged backgrounds
• freshmen or sophomores at the time of the application;
• ranked in the top 25%; and have a B average;
• display curiosity, cooperation, work ethnic in their references
• display an interest in learning more about the areas listed on the application

Application Process

To be considered the student application form, two recommendation forms, and a transcript must be submitted by March 1, 2007 to the address below. Only electronically or typed applications will be accepted. Handwritten or incomplete applications will not be considered. Notification will be after April 1, 2007.

Download an Application Packet [PDF]

Contact Information

Research Apprentice Program
Dr. Jesse Thompson, Jr.,
Director UIUC - College of ACES
1301 W Gregory Drive, Room 109
Urbana, Illinois 61801

Phone: (217)333-3380
Fax: (217)244-6537
E-mail: jthomps5@uiuc.edu

IMPORTANT NOTE: Failure to include any of the requested information may result in disqualification. If document is faxed, please mail the original copy to above address. Original signatures are required.

General Rules 

1. All absences from work or class must be excused by the mentor/supervisor or instructor
2. Students must show up for work, classes, and for any appointments at the scheduled times.
3. All assignments must be completed with a satisfactory level of performance.
4. Students will not be permitted to work in laboratories and other isolated areas before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. Classroom and group activities are permitted after 5:00 p.m. and on weekends.
5. There will be no continuous disruptions or disrespectful behavior on the job, in the classroom, at the residence hall, or on the University of Illinois campus. Quiet will be observed in all buildings.
6. No alcoholic beverages will be consumed, nor will decortive bottles or cans be permitted in rooms.
7. All drugs are considered illegal unless prescribed by a physician.
8. All floor visitations in the residence hall of non-program persons must have permission of the residence advisors and must take place before 11:00 p.m.
9. Leaving the campustown area and leaving the Urbana Champaign community must be cleared by the program director.
10. No personal visitations by family members or friends during the designated work week or other official activities without prior approval.
11. Sexually-oriented public displays of affection such as embracing and kissing, as well as other sexual activities will not be tolerated and will be grounds for dismissal.
12. Cellular phones and pagers must be turned off and may not be worn during designated class, group activities and meetings. Laboratories policies should be followed by RAP II students.

Quiet Hours 

• Sunday through Thursday: 9:00 P.M. (No room visitations after 12:30 a.m.)
• Friday and Saturday: 10:00 P.M. (No room visitations after 12:30 a.m.)
• All students must be in the building by 8:30 P.M. and on their assigned floor by 11 p.m.
• All RAP room phones should be quiet after 1:30 a.m.

Dormitory Regulations

1. Dormitory regulations regarding behavior, food service, and maintenance will be strictly enforced.
2. No lending of meal passes, and no use of meal passes more than once for the same meal.
3. No bicycles, roller blades in the residence hall.
4. No excessive noise in the residence hall, such as shouting, running and loud music/radio/television.
5. All students will be courteous and respectful of each other and residence hall staff.
6. Phones must be used in a business-like and courteous manner.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) is pleased to invite graduating high school seniors from groups who have traditionally been under-served in the math and science fields, who are incoming freshmen, to participate in the Young Scholars Program (YSP).

Program Description

YSP is a summer and first year academic experience provided for incoming freshmen students pursuing an undergraduate program of study offered through the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. YSP 2006 is a new partnership between the UIUC College of ACES and local 2-4 year institutions with the major goal to create a successful pre-UIUC academic experience for new freshmen. To accomplish this, students are enrolled in transferable college level courses at their local community college, participate in skill development exercises, and receive specialized counseling through out the first year of college.

Eligibility

Only those freshmen who have been admitted into a College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences major are invited to participate in this eight week summer program. Priority is given to traditionally underserved students. Successful applicants must have accepted the offer of fall admissions.

Compensation

Those students selected to participate in the YSP experience should expect the following:

• Special summer and academic year counseling
• Tuition and books paid for up to 9 credit hours
• Sponsored campus visits for special summer activities
• Competitive performance based scholarships
• Paid performance based on summer 2007 internships

Direct further inquiries to:

Dr. Jesse Thompson, Jr.
Young Scholars Program
UIUC - College of ACES
1301 W. Gregory Drive, Room 109
Urbana, IL 61801

Phone: (217)333-3380
Fax: (217)244-6537
E-Mail: jthomps5@uiuc.edu

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) is pleased to invite graduating high school seniors from groups who have traditionally been under-served in the math and science fields, who are incoming freshmen, to participate in the Young Scholars Program (YSP).

Program Description

YSP is a summer and first year academic experience provided for incoming freshmen students pursuing an undergraduate program of study offered through the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. YSP 2006 is a new partnership between the UIUC College of ACES and local 2-4 year institutions with the major goal to create a successful pre-UIUC academic experience for new freshmen. To accomplish this, students are enrolled in transferable college level courses at their local community college, participate in skill development exercises, and receive specialized counseling through out the first year of college.

Eligibility

Only those freshmen who have been admitted into a College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences major are invited to participate in this eight week summer program. Priority is given to traditionally underserved students. Successful applicants must have accepted the offer of fall admissions.

Compensation

Those students selected to participate in the YSP experience should expect the following:

• Special summer and academic year counseling
• Tuition and books paid for up to 9 credit hours
• Sponsored campus visits for special summer activities
• Competitive performance based scholarships
• Paid performance based on summer 2007 internships

Direct further inquiries to:

Dr. Jesse Thompson, Jr.
Young Scholars Program
UIUC - College of ACES
1301 W. Gregory Drive, Room 109
Urbana, IL 61801

Phone: (217)333-3380
Fax: (217)244-6537
E-Mail: jthomps5@uiuc.edu