The R.E.A.L. Experience

The R.E.A.L. (Research, Experiment, Analyze, Learn) program is composed of high school student researchers and has served as an initiative of the GIFT Summer Program since 2004. These students are from underrepresented populations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. During a 5-week period, students will experience and conduct research with their respective GIFT teacher in various university laboratories. Over 300 high school students have participated in R.E.A.L., with 75% of them pursuing STEM careers in postsecondary education.  This program is made possible by the generous support of the Siemens Foundation, The UPS Foundation and GIFT.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

  • High school students are eligible only when paired with a teacher from their respective high school who has been accepted into the GIFT program.
  • The student must be available for the entire duration of the R.E.A.L. experience, and available to work the same hours as his or her GIFT teacher.
  • Students, GIFT teachers and parents must attend an orientation session, which prepares them for their summer research experience.
  • Students must attend the End of Summer Celebration Luncheon and Round Table Discussion, where they will share their research with their peers.
  • Upon completion of the experience, the student is encouraged to enter science fair competitions at the local, state and national levels.

SAMPLE R.E.A.L. EXPERIENCES

Urban Honey Bee Project
Students will generate a survey of plant-pollinator interactions on Georgia Tech’s Campus. They will take photos of bees and analyze the species of bees, species of flower, flower color, location and time of day.

Candler Field Museum
Students will work at the Candler Field Museum, a replica of the old 1920's Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, where they will learn skills involving in aircraft maintenance along with the skills needed to restore antique and vintage airplanes.

Strategic Energy Institute
Students will design and test a small model related to solar thermal heat and fuel cells.