High School
The Teen Research and Education in Environmental Science (TREES) Program is a unique, tuition-free, summer research and mentorship program offering hands-on environmental research opportunities to motivated high school students. Our goals are to introduce and inspire students towards careers in environmental science and health through a mentored research experience. Students work one-on-one with mentors on projects that they choose and design.
TREES enables students to:
- Learn the scientific method of discovery
- Develop ideas into a testable hypothesis
- Research hypothesis and interpret the results
- Explore careers through mentors, seminars, and field trips
- Gain research experience to strengthen their college application
- Learn to live greener
Curriculum
During the first two weeks of the program, students receive hands-on instruction in basic laboratory skills they will use later in their projects. The remainder of the program is an independent research project. Through their projects, scholars learn to take a scientific approach towards an environmental problem, conducting in-depth library research, training in scientific methodology, carrying out hands-on bench science, and where possible, fieldwork. Toward the end of the summer, students will write a research report and present their projects to invited guests to a public presentation.
TREES Sample Schedule
Eligibility Requirements:
• Students must have completed grade 9, 10, or 11 by the summer
• Students should have a strong interest in learning about the environment and engaging in scientific research
• GPA at least 3.0/4.0
• Parental consent required
• Students must live in Philadelphia or the surrounding area
Candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline:
The application is currently closed. We will post application information in the Fall for the next cycle that takes place in Summer 2025.
Application Procedures:
When the application cycle is open, applicants will be expected to complete an online application form* AND submit the following supplemental documents:
• A current official copy of your transcript
• Two letters of recommendation from your teacher or supervisors (Note: At least one of your letters must be from a math or science teacher.)
• A resume outlining your extra-curricular activities, honors, and/or previous job experiences (Note: Ask your guidance counselor for more details)
• Unofficial PSAT Score Report and SAT Score Report if available
If emailing application and supplemental documents, please include your name and the program name (TREES Program) and contact information.