Enrichment Opportunities

The JAX Summer Student Program (SSP) is designed for intellectually curious undergraduate and graduating high school seniors eager to explore how genetics and genomics shape biological systems — and who want to grow as independent researchers in a collaborative environment. The program emphasizes laboratory discovery, scientific communication and personal growth in a team environment.

Admission to the Summer Student Program (SSP) is competitive, and students of all backgrounds are selected. All students receive a stipend of $7,000 for the 10-week program, including room and board. The cost of round-trip travel between the student's home and the Laboratory is also provided.

Students are required to attend the entire program. Students with date conflicts are still encouraged to apply; JAX staff will assist admitted students in negotiating early release, early finals, etc., to facilitate their on-time participation in required trainings at the beginning of the program. Students with significant date conflicts— such as early departure for overseas study — are encouraged to delay their application for another year. Students must not hold another job or internship or take summer classes during the program.

SSP is a 40-hour per week commitment that includes completing lab work and activities required by your host lab, attending weekly professional development sessions, and participating in a weekly journal club.

Eligibility and Selection

• JAX Genomic Education staff review each individual application. Considering only the materials submitted within the context of the application (supplemental materials are not permitted), the Summer Student Program will offer fellowships to students whose applications best match our review criteria and programmatic goals. For example, we look for evidence of the following characteristics:
• An indication of a deep desire to conduct an independent, mentored-research project in the broad area of genetics and genomics; academic achievement; curiosity and passion for science; resilience and problem-solving; personal maturity and acceptance of responsibility; and aptitude for working independently and within a team.
• Bar Harbor campus accepts applications from eligible high school seniors and undergraduate students.
• At the time of participation in the program, a high school student (Bar Harbor) must:
  • have completed Grade 12; be at least 18 years old; and be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Application Checklist
In addition to standard personal and school information, to complete the online application, you will need to provide:

• Two letters of recommendation. 
• Your informal or unofficial transcript in PDF format.
• A list of the science, technology, engineering, and computer science courses you have taken within the past three years, noting which had laboratory components;
• Your current CV or resume;
• A ranked list of your top three research interests, or labs, after reviewing our faculty research summaries;
• A written description of your research interests and rankings of your research area choices; and
• Four short answer responses (each one in 3,000 characters or less, including spaces)

For more information and to apply: https://www.jax.org/education-and-learning/high-school-students-and-undergraduates/learn-earn-and-explore/admission

UVA Health is offering in-person volunteering for the Summer 2026 Junior Volunteer Program to run from Monday, June 8 to Friday, July 31.

If you'd like to apply, you must submit an application of interest by Feb. 20, 2026, and attend a virtual mandatory information session with a parent/guardian.

Use this form to state your interest.

The Mandatory Virtual information Sessions (with Parent/Guardian) are:
Wednesday Feb. 25, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday, Mar. 7, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. 

Questions? Read the FAQs.
 

Announcing the NPR Student Podcast Challenge for 2026! Calling all student storytellers: NPR's Student Podcast Challenge is back. As always, they're looking to award prizes to the best high school podcasts in America!

The 2026 edition of the Student Podcast Challenge opened on Jan. 5 and closes on May 31 2026 at 11:59 PM EST. 

How to enter. Or read more info here.

You can sign up for these informational webinars below:
Wed., Jan. 21 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT
Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

What’s interesting about the place where you live?

We know it’s easy to take your city, town or neighborhood for granted, but in this contest, we’re challenging you to look closer, to explore and to discover.

Local Lens: A Photo Essay Contest for Exploring the Place Where You Live
Take six to eight photos that spotlight something interesting about your hometown — a group of people, an event, a place or a visual theme. 

Enter from Dec. 3, 2025, to Jan. 14, 2026

The Challenge
*Spotlight any feature of your local area that interests you by creating a photo essay of six to eight images, pulled together with a short written introduction and captions that explain each image.

Your photo essay MUST include:
*Six to eight images, uploaded in the order in which you would like an audience to view them.
*Short captions, or descriptions, for each image that help explain what the image illustrates and why that is important to what you want to show. (No more than 75 words each.)
*A short introduction of up to 300 words that offers background or context that explains a bit about your subject and why, to you, it is worth spotlighting. (You might consider the introduction the beginning of your essay, which the photos and descriptions will then continue. Together they will answer questions like where these photos were taken, why this subject is interesting to you and why they are worthy of attention for a larger audience.)

A Few Rules
In addition to the guidelines above, here are a few more details:

*You must be a student ages 13 to 19 in middle school or high school to participate, and all students must have permission from a parent or guardian to enter. Please see the F.A.Q. section for additional eligibility details.
*The photographs and writing you submit should be fundamentally your own — they should not be plagiarized, created by someone else or generated by artificial intelligence.
*Please keep digital manipulation and postprocessing to a minimum in general. (That is, you may use editing software for minor corrections such as one might make in a darkroom — cropping, adjusting brightness, balancing colors and so on — but please do not alter the reality of the photo in any way.)
*Your photo essay should be original for this contest. That means it should not already have been published at the time of submission, whether in a school newspaper, for another contest or anywhere else.
*Please also keep in mind that The New York Times has a global audience, including many families, so your submission should be appropriate for a broad audience. (For instance, please avoid cursing.)
*You may work alone or in pairs for this challenge, but students should submit only one entry each.
*You must also submit a short, informal “artist’s statement,” describing your process, as part of your submission. These statements, which will not be used to choose finalists, help us design and refine our contests. See the F.A.Q. to learn more.
*If you take pictures of people, remember to get permission from them and to collect their contact information. Learn more about this in the F.A.Q. below.

All entries must be submitted by Jan. 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time.  
I will share a link to the submission form that will become available when the contest opens.
You can learn more here: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/14/learning/local-lens-a-photo-essay-contest-for-exploring-the-place-where-you-live.html?campaign_id=55&emc=edit_ln_20251118&instance_id=166630&nl=the-learning-network&regi_id=98827719&segment_id=210815&user_id=ab2fefcf82420fc09c38d19d592eb0bc

Each year, 15 Jewish teens from across the country are selected to receive an award of $36,000 each to honor their leadership and efforts to repair the world.

Eligibility: The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards recognize teens who are currently serving in a leadership role on a project or initiative that is making a difference in their community or around the world. Eligible applicants are 15-19 years old, identify as Jewish, live in the United States, currently serving in a leadership role on a project or initiative that embodies the values of tikkun olam (repairing the world), and do not receive compensation for their work. Projects may focus on the Jewish community or the community at large.

Teens can apply by January 8, 2026.

1. Project Criteria - applications should:
*Focus on a single project or initiative led by the applicant
*Demonstrate that the applicant has made a significant and impactful contribution in a leadership role, either in initial project creation or over time
*Show the project’s measurable impact
*Provide a clear articulation of an issue area, geographic region, and community that the project serves
*The project can serve the Jewish community or the broader community

Applicants can draft and save long form answers prior to submitting them online in the fillable, downloadable form found below.

2. The Application
The application consists of several sections, including:

*Personal information
*Project information
*Leadership and tikkun olam
*The project’s impact
*Engagement of others
*Communications, marketing, and outreach
*The project’s sustainability
Supporting attachments (optional)

Applicants will create an account and begin the application process through the online portal. Applicants may return to the application at any time by logging into the online portal: https://sfjcf.my.site.com/apex/ERx_Forms__Portal_Login

3. Apply
Complete the application by or before the deadline on January 8, 2026.

Applicants will receive an email confirmation message within 24 hours of successfully submitting an application form
Applicants will receive status updates as the selection process moves into semifinalist and finalist rounds, in March and April
Awardees will be notified in late May

4. The Award
*$36,000 that can be applied to the Award recipient’s education or initiative
*An Awards celebration weekend in San Francisco, including a weekend retreat (shabbaton) with other Award recipients, alumni, and program leadership
*Connection to a network of fellow changemakers and leaders
*Media opportunities to elevate visibility for the Awardee’s project
*Ongoing support and guidance from Awards leadership to strengthen your impact
 

About the New York Times 2025-26 Contest

Our annual Contest Calendar is probably the single most powerful thing we publish all year. Since 2010, hundreds of thousands of teenagers around the globe have participated in our challenges, writing narratives, editorials, profiles, poetry and reviews, and creating videos, podcasts, illustrations, cartoons, photo essays and more.

Teachers tell us they value the contests because they invite students to take the skills they learn in school and use them to create for an authentic audience. Students tell us they like the variety of ways they can express themselves — and, of course, the confidence boost when they are recognized for their efforts.

Consider participating in one or more of eight challenges that invite you to engage, experiment, reflect and create — via writing, photography, audio, video and more.

1. Growing Up With A.I.: A MultimediaContest | Sept. 10-Oct. 22, 2025
Show us in words, images, audio or video - how the rise of artificial intelligence is
affecting the generation in high school now. Both students and educators may participate.

2. 100-Word Personal NarrativeContest | Oct. 22-Dec. 3, 2025
In 100 words or fewer, tell a powerful story about a meaningful life experience.

3. 'Local Lens' Photo Essay Contest | Dec. 3, 2025-Jan. 14, 2026
Create a photo essay that spotlights some aspect of life in the place you live.

4. 'My List' ReviewContest |Jan. 14 -Feb. 25, 2026
Choose any collection of three to five works of art or culture to group in some way, and
then tell us why we should, or shouldn't check them out.

5. Open Letter Contest | Feb. 25-April 8, 2026
Write a letter to a specific person or group that persuades them to make a change on an
issue that matters to you.

6. PodcastContest |April 8-May 13, 2026
Make an original podcast of no more than five minutes that informs or entertains listeners.

7. Summer Reading Contest |June 5-Aug. 14, 2026
Every week for 10 weeks we ask, "What got your attention in The Times recently?" Answer
in writing or video.

8. WeeklyCurrent Events Conversation | All School Year
Respond to our daily writing prompts. Each week we publish a selection of student
comments.

For more information, past winners, rules, guidelines and guides: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/23/learning/our-2025-26-student-contest-calendar.html?searchResultPosition=1

Some additional information:
1. We usually announce finalists about two months after a contest has closed and winners get their work published on The Learning Network. 
2. Students’ entries must be original and fundamentally their own.
3. Anyone who submits to our contests retains the copyright for the work, even after we publish it.
4. Students can enter as many contests as they want, but they can submit only one entry per contest.
5. Entries for most contests must be accompanied by a statement describing your process.
6. All of our contests are open to students around the world ages 13 to 19 who are in middle school or high school. 

Calling all high-school-age students!
Are you a high school student who wants to stand out on college applications, sharpen your leadership and debate skills, and connect with other ambitious students across the country?

Join a one-of-a-kind, online Civics & Debate Club—totally free to join.

You’ll build your confidence, grow your civics knowledge, and become part of a powerful network of future changemakers.

As an Ambassador, You’ll:
*Compete for a $5,000 college scholarship
*Practice real debate on today’s most important civic issues
*Boost your understanding of government, law, and civil discourse
*Earn a graduation cord and community service hours
*Take action through volunteer opportunities in your own community
*Be part of a national team of curious, driven students
Whether you’re new to debate or already a seasoned speaker, this club will challenge and inspire you—and help you become a more confident, informed leader.

About the Institute: Founded by Justice Sandra Day O’Connor following her retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court, the nonpartisan, nonprofit Institute continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American Democracy through multigenerational civics education, civil discourse and civic engagement.

Register and Apply: https://oconnorinstitute.submittable.com/submit

Learn more about the Sandra Day O'Connor Institute for American Peace: https://oconnorinstitute.org/

The Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA offers engaging youth programming designed to inspire compassion and responsibility towards animals. 

Individual volunteer opportunities are available for those aged 14 and older,  allowing youth to contribute to our mission while gaining valuable experience. Through these programs, we aim to cultivate a sense of empathy and stewardship in the next generation of animal advocates.

Students aged 14 to 17 should complete this application is for volunteer opportunities with the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA. Once you complete the form, click the Submit button at the bottom:  https://www.volgistics.com/appform/2107662385

It takes everyone working together to build community! Habitat for Humanity volunteers have varied skills, interests, and passions that contribute to our mission of building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.

Join us by swinging a hammer, helping at the Store, walking alongside Habitat Homebuyers, and a host of other ways. Whether you are a student, retired, working a full-time job, or raising a family, we have opportunities for you to help in our mission!

Construction
Join us on the build site as an individual or with your team in a rewarding, fun environment --- no experience necessary (Youth Builds 16+; General Builds 18+).

Habitat Store
Help out with donation receiving and carryout, as a department specialist, cashier, furniture assembly specialist, or in a variety of other roles --- individuals and groups are welcome (shifts flexible based on your availability!) - (12+, youth 12 and 13 need to volunteer with a parent, guardian or older sibling)!

Office
Work in the Habitat office as a receptionist or help with administrative tasks to keep operations running smoothly

Youth & Special Events
Serve on the build site for a Youth Build Day or at one of our many special events. Too young to work on site? Bring lunch for volunteers and families on Saturday and tour the build site as part of Lunch Bunch.

Volunteer Teams
Consider joining one of our Volunteer Teams including: Midweek Crew, Women Build, Faith Builders, Habitat UVA, and Habitat Youth Leaders.

For more information or to complete a form: https://www.cvillehabitat.org/how-to-help/voluntee...

You can also call the Volunteer Coordinator at 434-293-9066 or email them directly at volunteer@cvillehabitat.org. The Volunteer Engagement department will be in touch to get you started and ensure you have a great experience!

The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center (JSAAHC) is dedicated to providing its diverse audience with unique educational experiences. Through guided tours, school partnerships, family programs, cultural celebrations and adult programs, the Center offers visitors multiple entry points to explore its mission.

JSAAHC interns participate in rewarding hands on experiences that allow them to directly impact programming; interact with other City Center Resident Partners and the community; and learn about Charlottesville history and the culture of African Diaspora peoples. Interns work directly with staff in the areas of: advancement, communications, curatorial, digital humanities and public programs.

Why Intern With Us?
JSAAHC offers internships to promising high school rising juniors, seniors, undergraduates, graduate students or career changers who are considering employment in the arts, history, education, nonprofit management and promotions and marketing. Through administrative and project-based activities, interns have the opportunity to research, conceptualize and implement, programs and initiatives that advance the Heritage Center’s mission.

You can find more information about the program and apply for the Marketing Internship or Development Intern: https://jeffschoolheritagecenter.org/internships/

Students who would like to volunteer with the Jefferson Albemarle Regional Library should consider applying to be a JMRL Teen Volunteer. Students should complete this application and select which type of volunteer position interests them. 

Note: 13 is the minimum age to volunteer independently. Teen Advisory Boards (TAB) and Volunteer Teen Zine Editor positions are open to ages 11-18. 

You may download the application, print it, and bring it to any JMRL library branch. 
Teen Volunteer Application: https://jmrl.org/teen-volunteers

Adults 18 and older should fill out the JMRL Adult Volunteer Application.
Adult Volunteer Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfC04jNzYRJ7C92jsI2MfOs9HUsWORr2TfkUDHlRWSWnZ2cFw/viewform

If you’re contacted to volunteer, you will be given a paper contract to be signed by you and your parent or guardian and returned to library staff. 

The Congressional Award provides opportunities for young people to unleash their potential by achieving personal goals focused on volunteerism, character development, and fitness.

The United States Congress established The Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, service, and achievement in young people. It began as a bipartisan effort in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives. The Congressional Award is the United States Congress’ award for young Americans. It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive. Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals.

Each level involves setting goals in four program areas; Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. The program is open to all 14- to 24-year olds regardless of ability, circumstance, or socioeconomic status. Participants earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Congressional Award Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Congressional Award Medals.

PARTICIPANT TIMELINE

• Register and submit your one-time $25 registration fee
• Sign up for a Submittable account
• Set your goals
• Work toward your goals
• Receive your award
• Move to the next level

Start the process & learn more

St. Anne’s-Belfield alumni have successfully earned silver and gold medals. Please reach out to Mrs. Sohne-Johnston to learn more. Students should check their email for links to the program brochure and workbook. It can take 7 or more months to earn the Bronze Medal and 24 months or more to earn the Gold Medal.

About the Bill of Rights Institute:
Established in September 1999, the Bill of Rights Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization that works to engage, educate, and empower individuals with a passion for the freedom and opportunity that exist in a free society. The Institute develops educational resources and programs for a network of more than 50,000 educators and 70,000 students nationwide 

What is MyImpact Challenge?
MyImpact Challenge is a civic engagement contest hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute.

What is a Civic Engagement Contest?
Our civic engagement contest highlights students actively engaged in service, volunteerism, or entrepreneurship in their communities.

Not sure where to start? This video (youtube.com/watch?embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fbillofrightsinstitute.org%2F&source_ve_path=MTM5MTE3LDI4NjY0LDE2NDUwMw&v=8fZjT3cS9c0&feature=youtu.be) walks you through the key application components - a written essay to connect your project to our founding principles and virtues, a project report, and a video or series of photos highlighting your projects impact on the community - and shares some tips and trips for a successful application.

Learn more about Principles and Virtues here: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/principles-and-virtues

00:00 - 00:14 MyImpact Challenge
00:15 - 00:36 Project Types & Getting Started
00:37 - 01:04 Community Collaboration & Planning
01:05 - 01:13 Capturing and Showcasing Impact
01:14 - 02:36 Application Requirements & Submission
02:37 - 03:25Telling Your Project Story
03:26 -  03:47 Final Tips & Resources

Components include: 
1. Project Report
Community Impact
Components: Five required components - project inspiration, project plan, details of the project execution, two examples of the project’s impact on a community of which the student is a part.
Knowledge Gained
Originality - Ideas are creative and inventive
Mechanics - Content well organized, coherent, logical, and generally free of spelling and grammatical errors.

2. Essay
3. Visual Documentation

Prizes 
Grand Prize - $10,000
First Prize - $7,500
Second Prize - $5,000
Third Prize - $2,000
Honorable Mention - $1,500

Who can Apply?
Submission is open to students ages 13-19 in all U.S. states, territories, and Armed Forces Schools Abroad.

When does the Contest Close?
Submission must be received by 11:59 p.m. PT on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Only submissions entered through MyImpact Challenge’s online portal will be accepted for the contest.
 

The Horatio Alger Association was established in 1947, following the Great Depression and the Second World War, to reinforce belief in the American Dream and promote the merits of private enterprise. It bears the name of the renowned author Horatio Alger, Jr., whose tales of overcoming adversity through unyielding perseverance and basic moral principles captivated the public in the late 19th century. The organization’s founder, Dr. Kenneth Beebe, in close association with Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, hoped to inspire individual Americans to reach their highest potential, thereby strengthening American society as a whole. They created the Association to recognize individuals of exceptional achievement as a way to remind Americans of the greatness that can be accomplished in our country regardless of one’s circumstances or background.

The Horatio Alger Association is one of the nation’s largest need-based scholarship programs for high school students who have overcome significant adversity and are committed to earning a bachelor’s degree. High school students with financial need who display integrity, perseverance, and a clear determination to turn challenges into opportunities to pursue their American Dream, should consider applying for the scholarship. 

More than 600 scholarships are awarded every year, with amounts ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. For Juniors, the application is open from December 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026. For Seniors, the application is open from December 1, 2025 to February 15, 2026.  

Learn more here: www.horatioalger.org/scholarships.

Juniors
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school junior in the United States
• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States
• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower household income)
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
• Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Be a United States citizen

Seniors
Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
Eligibility Requirements:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States
• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at one of the target colleges/universities on our website (complete list can be found here: Senior Scholarships)
• Demonstrate financial need ($100,000 or lower household income)
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
• Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Be a United States citizen

For information about scholarships, to determine eligibility, and to apply: https://horatioalger.org/scholarships-and-services/undergraduate-scholarships/

AFS-USA is committed to making studying abroad more attainable for high school students from all backgrounds who possess the unique qualities needed to succeed on our transformative programs. 

100 years of volunteerism. 75+ years of exchange. AFS-USA honors the legacy of its founders—volunteer WWI and WWII American Field Service ambulance drivers—who emerged from the wars with a bold mission: to help prevent future conflict through cultural exchange and understanding. 

Extraordinary, full-scholarship study abroad programs for active global citizens who are energized to help solve some of today’s biggest global challenges.

The program is available only via scholarship award. 2026 Applications are now open. Don't wait to apply. This is a competitive program!

The AFS Global STEM Academies combine digital and in-person learning, gathering youth from 15 countries worldwide, in which scholars enrich their STEM skills and knowledge through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global skills, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and social innovation. 

The Academies begin with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum (from home), engaging in global skills, social impact, and innovation-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. The virtual portion of the program culminates with student-led impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including environmental topics and energy technologies. 

After completing the virtual curriculum, Academy scholars travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the four Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, or India. Academy programming focuses on critical STEM skills and global understanding, as well as local immersion. Scholars participate in community service and have the opportunity to visit local innovative, energy-focused operations to see first-hand how companies and organizations are using STEM skills in practice to address industry challenges.

Program scholars earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. bp, a global energy company, provides funding that supports these scholarships.

Applicants to the 2026 AFS Global STEM Academies must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Nationality/Citizenship or Country of Legal Residence* - Azerbaijan, Brazil, China, Egypt, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, United Kingdom or USA
2. Age: Participants must be 15 – 17.5 years old at the program start date to be eligible. Birthdate: 1 September 2008 through 1 April 2011
3. Language - English. Ability to participate fully, both online and in a classroom setting, in a program conducted entirely in English.
4. Interest in STEM, energy technologies, innovation, and global skills. Curiosity and willingness to interact with global peers and explore new environments abroad.
5. Ability to Travel. Ability and willingness to travel abroad, unaccompanied, to any of the four Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, and India. Although applicants can rank their destination preference, AFS will select all scholarship winners’ destinations.
6. Technology*. A computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content* An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions* Stable internet or Wi-Fi connection *If access to internet or technology is an issue, AFS may be able to help.

For information about AFS/USA - https://www.afsusa.org/

For more information about AFS Global Stem Academies: https://www.afsusa.org/afs-global-stem-academies/

To apply: https://application.afs.org/stem/s/applynowregister

The Ruth B. and George T. Huff Scholarship is providing scholarships for deserving students in Grade 12 and managed by the Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

Applicants must:

• Be high school seniors from high schools in the City of Charlottesville or in the counties of Floyd, Patrick, Albemarle, and Greene counties in Virginia
• Be bright and deserving
• Demonstrate financial need
• Plan to attend full-time an accredited public or private, two-year or four-year college, university, or technical college located in the US

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale

The online application must be completed and transmitted no later than 5:00 pm EST on January 22, 2026. Any required supplemental materials must be mailed or emailed together no later than January 22, 2026.

The additional materials required must be sent in ONE envelope or in one email to and also RECEIVED no later than 5:00 pm EST January 22, 2026:
The Ruth B. and George T. Huff Scholarship, PO Box 1465, Taylors, SC 29687
or emailed to admin@csascholars.org

Additional Materials Include:

• Signed Terms of Agreement (found within the online application).
• Official Transcript with grades and cumulative GPA posted.
• SAT/ACT Scores, if taken (not explicitly stated as mandatory, but encouraged if taken).
• A one-page signed Personal Statement/Essay explaining why the scholarship is important, including college and career plans.
• A signed copy of the parents' Federal Tax Form 1040 (pages one and two only) and W-2 forms for each parent from the latest filed year. 

Application Link: https://www.csascholars.org/huff/

About the Contest
Each year, the Virginia Council on Women (Council) hosts an Annual STEAM-H Essay Contest (Contest). The Contest, which started in 2012 under Governor Bob McDonnell’s administration, awards high school senior girls pursuing STEAM-H majors and careers with scholarships to aid with their tuition at institutions of higher education, to include but not limited to four-year colleges and universities, community colleges, and career and technical schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia and throughout the Unites States. Since the establishment of the Contest, the Council has awarded more than $225,000 in scholarships. 

Defining STEM: The Virginia Council on Women’s definition of STEAM-H includes majors and careers in the following areas: science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, and healthcare.

The Virginia Council on Women will provide one merit-based and one need-based scholarship to female high school seniors in each of the five geographic regions across the Commonwealth through a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Healthcare (STEAM-H) essay contest. This year, merit-based scholarships will be awarded based on the quality of the essay submitted, and the need-based scholarships will be awarded based on the quality of the essay and the individual's self-identified financial need. Award amounts may vary and are determined by the Council annually.

Eligibility: Need and Merit-Based

• Be a Virginia resident
• Be enrolled in a Virginia-based high school or high school equivalent (to include homeschool)
• Be a female high school senior
• Be planning to attend an institution of higher education to include but not limited to a community college, four-year college or university, trade or technical school, or certificate program
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA (4.0 Scale)

Write a 700-1000 word essay responding to the following:

1. Your motivation for pursuing a STEAM-H career.
2. Your anticipated course of STEAM-H study, trade, and/or profession.

All essays are judged on content, creativity, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Scholarship recipients will be notified in February 2026.

For more information: https://www.women.virginia.gov/steamh-essay-contest/

Join the next generation of free speech leaders for the FIRE Free Speech Forum from June 21-27 in Washington, DC. The Free Speech Forum is a free, week-long summer program for college-bound rising 10th through 12th graders who are interested in free speech.

Application Deadline: March 30th, 2026
Hosted by FIRE in Washington, DC

FIRE’s Free Speech Forum will provide a best-in-class civics education for students across the United States, including an ambitious curriculum led by legal experts, dynamic skill-building activities, and hands-on projects. Students will leave the Forum ready to be leaders who advocate for free speech in their communities and on campuses when they get to college.

Students will gain a thorough understanding of free speech, including what it is, why it’s important, and how it empowers all of us to solve real-world problems and achieve our full potential. The Forum will strike the perfect balance of academic rigor, immersive activities, leadership-building, and fun. Through a shared interest in free speech, students will make lifelong memories with new friends while getting a taste for college life at American University. 

Who should apply?

• College-bound students with a passion for free speech and advocacy
• Those eager to explore a career in law or First Amendment work
• Students enrolled in grades 9–11 at the time of application
• Applicants who will be at least 15 years old at the program’s start and no older than 18 when it ends

What does it cost? It’s completely free! FIRE covers registration, housing, and meals. Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Washington, D.C., but free transportation is provided between Ronald Reagan National Airport or Union Station and the university where the event will be hosted.

Need help with travel expenses? A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. Students accepted into the program will receive details about how to apply.

For more information and to apply: https://www.thefire.org/news/join-fires-free-speech-forum-summer-washington-dc
 

JFK Profile in Courage Essay Contest

Offered by John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum 

Multiple awards worth $100 - $10,000

Grade level: High School Students

Open Date: September 1, 2025

Application deadline: January 12, 2026

Winner Announcement: April 30, 2026.

Scholarship Overview
Are you a U.S. high school student with a love for U.S. history? If so, we may have the perfect opportunity for you: the JFK Profile in Courage Essay Contest! Each year, the contest awards up to $10,000 to winning applicants who submit a 700 – 1,000-word essay following the year’s prompt. Each year’s prompt relates to U.S. history, with this year’s being: “Describe an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917, the year John F. Kennedy was born. Include an analysis of the obstacles, risks, and consequences associated with the act. ” The scholarship is offered by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston, Massachusetts.

If you love U.S. history and want to put your writing skills and history knowledge to the test, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility
The contest is open to United States high school students in grades nine through twelve attending public, private, parochial, or home schools; U.S. students under the age of twenty enrolled in a high school correspondence/GED program in any of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, or the U.S. territories; and U.S. citizens attending schools overseas. Past winners and finalists are not eligible to participate. Employees of sponsors and members of their families are not eligible to participate.

Requirements

• The contest deadline is January 12, 2026 at 11:59 PM (EST).
• Essays can be no more than 1,000 words but must be a minimum of 700 words. Citations and bibliography are not included in the word count.
• Essays must be the original work of the student. Essays may be checked for AI assistance and are disqualified if AI is detected at any point in the essay or bibliography. See Tips for Avoiding Plagiarism.
• Essays must have a minimum of five sources.
• Essays should not include identifying information about the author.

Essay Subjects
Essays must describe an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917, the year John F. Kennedy was born. The official may have addressed an issue at the local, state, or national level. See Contest Topic and Information and Helpful Tips for Writing Your Essay for more information.

Essays must include a bibliography. Accepted formats include APA, MLA, or Turabian. Please refer to Guidelines for Citations and Bibliographies.

Nominating Teachers
All students must list the name of their nominating teacher on the registration form. The role of a nominating teacher is to provide students with support and advice during the writing of their essay. Nominating teachers are also asked to read students' essays to make suggestions for improvement before they are submitted to the essay contest. As part of this review process, the nominating teacher reviews the essay for syntax, grammatical, typographical and spelling errors and ensures the essay meets the contest requirements listed above. The first place winner and their nominating teacher, as representatives of their school, will be invited to receive awards at the annual Profile in Courage Award ceremony held at the Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston.

Nominating teachers can be former or current teachers, but must still be teaching at the same high school as the essay participant. Usually students ask their English or History/Social Studies teachers.

For more information: https://www.jfklibrary.org/learn/education/profile-in-courage-essay-contest/eligibility-and-requirements?fbclid=IwY2xjawOlNJZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPYU1BcW0yY1dIZHZZcXozc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhiawZ1YCgykshfWBv_W5HkqF-KP7Ynk9uwTRl0DtrSIbSEu6CJpIEBjU_lQ_aem_nIB86vbWV6JAiRGrg7VkuA

Submit your essay: https://jfkessaycontest.smapply.io/prog/john_f_kennedy_profile_in_courage_essay_contest/

Everyone has a role to play when it comes to confronting climate change. The
Community Climate Collaborative (C3) catalyzes climate action through
collaboration, programs, and advocacy. We work closely with schools,
businesses, households, and local governments to reduce carbon emissions,
develop climate action plans, and enact equitable policies that accelerate
climate action and build climate leaders. We use a positive, solutions-oriented
approach and strive to be a model for other cities and counties throughout the
Commonwealth.

We are seeking high school students for a Spring 2026 paid internship to begin
the week of February 2nd and end on May 1st. Current 10th and 11th graders
are encouraged to apply.

Teen Intern
The C3 Community Engagement Manager is looking for students who want to
take part in the workings of a local climate nonprofit. The intern will learn and
complete activities in the following areas: Development, Communications,
Policy, and Corporate Sustainability. We will help:
● Translate the overwhelming problem of climate change into measurable,
tangible concepts around climate and energy, allowing youth to identify
and understand solutions.
● Empower youth to identify skills with which they can take action for
climate solutions.
● Practice persuasive communication skills while learning about local policy
topics and community solutions.

Position Information
● Must be able to commit to the position for the entire semester
● This position reports to C3’s Community Engagement Manager.
● This position requires a weekly commitment of up to 5 hours per week.
● Must be able to meet at least 30 minutes per week on a weekly basis
between the hours of 9 am - 5 pm.
● This position will be fully virtual, and is open to high school candidates in
the Albemarle, Charlottesville, and Richmond communities of Virginia.
● The hourly wage is $18.00 an hour.

To apply, please submit a letter of interest and a reference letter from a
community-based organization to sarah@theclimatecollaborative.org by
January 12th, 2026.

To learn more about C3:https://www.theclimatecollaborative.org/
To apply: https://www.theclimatecollaborative.org/careers

Since 1973, Camp Holiday Trails has been deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our incredible community volunteers and partners. By joining this compassionate and dynamic team, you’ll not only enrich the lives of these exceptional children and teenagers but also find yourself on a rewarding journey filled with personal growth and heartwarming connections. Together, we can make Camp Magic. 

Each year, over 600 dedicated volunteers make our mission a reality - to create a community that empowers children and teens with medical needs, and their siblings to thrive.

1. Year-Round Volunteers
All ages and abilities are warmly welcomed for a day of volunteering, no matter the time of year! Whether you want to organize an office outing with a difference, you’re eager to share your unique talents with our Campers, or seek meaningful experiences for your student group or sports team, we have a place for you. Join our vibrant community and make a lasting impact while enjoying the rewards of giving back.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeg-e8vdCyw5e3vEi4f7J8EgT1SWs3ADZIXKNJW2S7DxB4eMw/viewform

2. Program Volunteers
Program Volunteers at Camp Holiday Trails are 15 years or older and have a unique chance to form meaningful connections with our Campers while contributing to vital aspects of summer camp. As a Program Volunteer, you’ll be at the heart of our Campers’ experience, taking on diverse tasks from painting rocks to line our trails and setting up tents with our Campers to assisting with morning activities and resetting the Dining Hall after each meal. 
 
Program Volunteers interested in fully immersing themselves in our camp environment by living in a cabin alongside campers and counselors must be 18 years or older or have previously volunteered at CHT. This hands-on experience fosters leadership development, enhances communication skills, and offers an unforgettable chance to positively impact the lives of our incredible campers. 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOzAYcObzgBlH20kQaKQyv73pxKNF0x6Ey0obzbQQji229iA/viewform

3. Horse Volunteers
Join us this summer as a Horse Volunteer and become a vital part of summer camp. No prior horse experience is needed, and volunteers as young as 12 years old are welcome! As a Horse Volunteer, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to engage our campers in a safe, caring, and fun environment while helping with the care and wellbeing of our herd.  

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOzAYcObzgBlH20kQaKQyv73pxKNF0x6Ey0obzbQQji229iA/viewform

For more information: https://campholidaytrails.org/volunteer/

Are you a rising high school senior with a passion for science who is motivated to work hard, learn from leading scientists in world-class labs, live on a college campus, and make friends for life? Learn more about whether the Summer Science Program is for you.

Summer Science Program (SSP) International is on a mission to promote learning, doing, and belonging in science. Our STEM research programs equip participants with the tools for scientific inquiry, fueling their curiosity and inspiring growth.

SSP International’s flagship program is a rigorous five-week residential summer research experience designed for highly motivated high school juniors. Participants engage in advanced research in astrophysics, biochemistry, bacterial genomics, and synthetic chemistry while living on a college campus. Summer Science Program has offered participants “the educational experience of a lifetime” for over 66 years.

How to Prepare
Applications are open each winter to current high school juniors who have completed or are in the process of completing relevant coursework by June for credit and a grade. Applicants must be at least 15 years old but not yet 19 during program operation. Current freshmen, sophomores, and seniors are not eligible.
 
We recommend considering the following before starting your application:

*What is your personal motivation for attending the Summer Science Program? Who you are, your interests, and what you bring to and hope to gain from the program are the most important parts of your application.
*Which research track interests you the most? We ask all applicants to choose only one to apply to.
*Have you completed the relevant coursework?
-Astrophysics: physics (any level high school physics) + precalculus (or if you don’t have physics, calculus)
-Bacterial Genomics: biology + algebra II
-Biochemistry: biology + chemistry + strong algebra skills
- Cell Biology: biology + algebra II
*Who could serve as a reference for you? A teacher, mentor, coach, etc.

Course Requirements
The only academic prerequisite to be eligible to attend the Summer Science Program is to have completed coursework relevant to the research project you’re interested in. These courses must be taken for credit and a grade and be completed by June. We do not require AP or advanced level classes. Self-study does not qualify.
 
Summer Science Program is not collecting or considering standardized test scores for admission for 2026 (including PSAT, ACT/SAT, and APs). The only exception is for international students who will be permitted to include test scores that demonstrate English proficiency.

Financial Aid is available to qualified candidates.
Applications are need-blind, meaning you do not need to request financial aid until after you’ve been admitted, and anticipated need for financial aid is in no way considered during the admissions process. Assuming typical expenses and assets, the Summer Science Program is free for participants with a family income of $75,000 or less, and participants with a family income under approximately $140,000 will qualify for a discount. We also offer stipends of $3,000 in addition to free admission for select participants that would otherwise need to work over the summer.

Learn more about the evaluation process: https://ssp.org/2026evaluation/
Submit your application: https://ssp.org/application/
Admissions FAQs: https://ssp.org/faqs/

Key Dates and Deadlines
January 29, 2026: Deadline for international applications
February 19, 2026: Deadline for domestic applications
Mid-March 2026: International admissions decisions released
Mid-April 2026: Domestic admissions decisions released
June 2026: Programs begin mid-late June