Nova Scholar Reviews

This program made me more confident in my ability to take on independent research. I plan to submit my project to national science fairs, and I’m even considering expanding it into a larger study. I never imagined I would be this passionate about research.

The most valuable lesson I learned was that research is not just about finding answers—it’s about asking the right questions. My mentor pushed me to refine my research question multiple times, and I saw how much a well-defined problem statement improves a study. This skill will help me in any academic or professional pursuit.

Having Lin as a mentor was an amazing experience. She not only provided technical knowledge but also shared her personal journey in research, which inspired me to pursue this path. I learned so much from her about scientific curiosity and perseverance.

Working with Carrie was the best part of the program for me. She challenged me to think deeper about my research question and always pushed me to refine my ideas. Her mentorship made a huge difference in my confidence as a researcher.

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Submitting my research for publication was a surreal experience. I never thought I’d be able to contribute something meaningful to an academic journal while still in high school.

I loved the open-ended nature of my research project. Unlike school assignments, there was no single ‘correct’ answer—I had to think critically and problem-solve on my own. That freedom made the research process both exciting and challenging.

Publishing my research made all the late nights and data analysis worth it. Seeing my work formally recognized was an incredibly rewarding experience. It has motivated me to continue exploring new research questions in the future.

After this experience, I’m planning to apply for research internships next summer. I never would have thought I was capable of conducting real research before this program. It showed me that curiosity and persistence are just as important as prior knowledge.