We kicked off a fantastic summer with eighteen high school Lu-Springer Research Scholars from eight states and 16 undergraduate research interns from six states and Puerto Rico. Aspirnauts experienced full-time discovery science in biomedical research labs, professional skills development, and wellness training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center--all while residing on Vanderbilt's campus.
Aspirnaut™ Featured on NBC Nightly News
On August 2, 2022, Aspirnaut™ was featured on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt. The NBC crew was on-site for a full day of interviews and filming. Click the link below in case you missed the broadcast.
The direct link to the Aspirnaut™ story is HERE.
Summer Program Impact: In Their Words...
"It has helped me grow as a person significantly! Not only has my knowledge of science grown, but Aspirnaut™ has helped me grow responsibly and respectfully. I feel as though this experience is truly life-changing."
"This program helped me become more confident and more certain about my future. I learned that I really enjoy working in a lab and began to see what life as a researcher might be like. I also became more accepting of my background, especially after meeting and talking to many inspiring people who overcame numerous extremely difficult life challenges."
"Aspirnaut™ revealed an undercurrent of passion that runs through the STEM field. After this summer, I am more excited than ever to pursue my goals and build my passion for STEM."
"I was allowed to take a glimpse into the world of research and have already learned so much, but I've only scratched the surface."
"The best thing about this program was getting to be with like-minded people and grow alongside them."
"Having the wellness component helped my physical and mental wellness throughout the program."
"The Aspirnaut™ Summer Research Internship has equipped me with lab research skills, from technical skills such as HPLC to communication skills such as poster presenting. Beyond these learning opportunities, Aspirnaut™ has helped me develop a specific career plan to guide my path. I feel much more confident in my place in STEM as an underrepresented student thanks to Aspirnaut™!"
"The Aspirnaut™ program has allowed me to discover my talents and refine my idea of who I want to be. Being able to conduct meaningful and novel scientific research fills me with a sense of accomplishment and pride--especially when the results are promising. The Wellness Approach has allowed me to not only keep fit throughout the summer but also better appreciate the importance of self-care in life."
"This summer, outside of the program, was one of the most mentally challenging times of my life. I want to express my gratitude for how encouraging and helpful the staff was while dealing with personal challenges. I felt seen, loved, heard, and so supported; that is all I could have ever asked for."
"I just wanted to let you all know that this has been one of the best experiences of my life!"
2023 Application is OPEN! Deadline: January 18, 2023
We are accepting applications for High School and Undergraduate Aspirnaut™ Summer Research Internships. Recruitment is focused on individuals from rural and diverse backgrounds and underrepresented in STEM careers. We are looking for students who have achieved excellent grades and test scores in math and science and who have demonstrated a commitment to pursuing a career in a STEM field.
To learn more about the High School Program, Click HERE
To learn more about the Undergraduate Program, Click HERE
