Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP)

What is the Research and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP)?
REAP is a program designed to encourage Minnesota high school students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This is accomplished by offering a hands-on experience in research and development activities to students who may choose to continue their education in those fields. Established in 1979 with grants from the research offices of the U.S. Army, REAP is administered by the Academy of Applied Science. For REAP programs in other states, visit the Academy of Applied Science.

Purpose
Each year the Academy selects one or more high school students in research settings to give them an opportunity to work with professional scientists on original research over the summer months. The Research Engineering Apprenticeship Program (REAP) is especially focused on students who have not had an opportunity to work in a research environment with a professional scientist. Young women and underrepresented minority youth studying science are especially encouraged to apply. These apprenticeships are designed to expand students' background and understanding of scientific research and motivate them toward a research career in science, mathematics or technology. The REAP scholars present their research in a paper at the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium.

Criteria To Be Enforced In 2013
REAP is once again undergoing an identity change. REAP is an underrepresented program. The Army’s definition of underrepresented is: African American, Native Alaskan, American Indian, Latino, women in physics and engineering and students (no matter the ethnicity or gender) who qualify for free or reduced lunches.

Confidential Lunch Application Form                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         lunchapplication.pdf

 

The REAP Experience:

  • Motivates students toward a research career in science, mathematics or technology.
  • Expands the student's background and understanding of scientific research.
  • Provides students with insights into the philosophy and objectives of scientific research.
  • Provides students with a challenging science experience that is not readily available in high school.
  • Provides students with an opportunity to work cooperatively with scientists actively engaged with research.