Program Helping University School Students Conduct Mentored Research at NSU
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) has collaborated with the NSU University School to develop a new high-level initiative for high school students: the Research Fellowship Program at NSU University School.
Led by Dana Mills, PhD, Associate Dean of Research and Director of the Hochberg-Miniachi Razor’s Edge Research Scholars program, this fellowship gives high-achieving NSU University School students a rare opportunity to engage in advanced, applied research experiences, typically reserved for university students.
This intensive program goes far beyond traditional enrichment. Students receive direct training in research design, methodology, and analysis, and immediately learn to apply these tools to real-world problems. Working in close collaboration with NSU faculty, University School 11th and 12th graders participants are immersed in the practice of research.
Dana Mills, PhD, working with Fellowship students.
The fellowship emphasizes not only technical skills but also critical thinking, scholarly collaboration, and professional presentation. The program begins with a semester of didactic training in research design and methodology, then transitions to applied research experiences with each University School student being paired with an NSU researcher, building connections that help guide their research journey. The program culminates in the development of an independent research proposal, with the potential for projects advancing into full studies, where students present their findings in professional forums.
As Dr. Mills explains, “Our goal is to provide motivated high school students with the same kind of rigorous, applied experience that students receive at the university level. This program is designed to challenge them, inspire them, and prepare them for the research opportunities that lie ahead in college and beyond.”
With its blend of academic rigor, mentorship, and hands-on application, the Research Fellowship Program positions students at the forefront of innovation while giving them a true head start on their academic futures.