In this first post of my CURIE Academy series, I'm excited to introduce you to Cornell University’s CURIE Academy—a program that provides high school students like me with an intensive, immersive experience in STEM. From hands-on engineering projects to insightful field sessions led by Cornell’s top faculty, CURIE Academy is designed to inspire and support the next generation of STEM innovators, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Join me as I take you through what CURIE Academy is all about, why I felt drawn to apply, and the steps I took in my application journey.
So...What Exactly is CURIE Academy?
CURIE Academy, named after the pioneering scientist Marie Curie, is a week-long residential program held at Cornell University. It’s tailored for high school girls who are curious about engineering and want to gain hands-on experience in STEM. CURIE Academy stands out because it’s dedicated to students from backgrounds that are typically underrepresented in STEM, creating a diverse environment where different perspectives come together to solve real-world problems.
Over the week, we participated in field sessions led by Cornell professors, where we explored a variety of engineering fields, including biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science. Each day had a mix of hands-on activities, lectures, and project-based learning, allowing us to get a feel for different disciplines. By the end of the program, every student worked on a small research project that we presented in front of our peers and mentors.
Curie Academy goes beyond just academics—it’s designed to build confidence, create community, and show students that engineering is a field where everyone has a place.
Why I Applied: My Passion and Goals in STEM
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of using technology to enhance people’s lives. My dream is to work in biomedical engineering, creating devices that use artificial intelligence to expand human potential. Think AI-powered prosthetics that respond to brain signals or wearable tech that monitors and improves health in real time. But to turn this dream into reality, I need to gain real experience in engineering fields, learn from experts, and, most importantly, find a community of like-minded peers and mentors who share my passion.
CURIE Academy felt like the perfect fit. I saw it as a chance to dive deep into the engineering world while also connecting with other students who share my ambition. The program’s emphasis on supporting underrepresented students in STEM made it even more meaningful to me—I want to be part of a field that champions diversity and values every perspective, especially since I, myself am from a first-generation college background.
Tackling the Application Process
Applying to the program requires careful attention to eligibility, preparation, and a bit of strategy. Here’s a breakdown of each part of the process and what you need to know to submit a standout application.
Eligibility Requirements: Are You a Good Fit?
Before diving in, CURIE Academy has specific eligibility criteria to ensure applicants are ready for the program's academic rigor:
Academic Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required, with strong performance in math and science courses. Applicants should be high school sophomores or juniors on a path to complete:
AP Calculus AB or BC (or equivalent)
AP Physics (calculus-based, like AP Physics C, is preferred)
Honors or AP Chemistry (or equivalent)
Commitment to Diversity in STEM: You should demonstrate a commitment to addressing gender representation in STEM, such as through leadership roles or overcoming barriers in STEM fields.
Application Form: Telling Your Story
The first step is filling out the Application Form, which includes essential academic and personal information as well as three 250-word essays. Here’s a closer look at each essay prompt and tips for making yours memorable:
Essay 1: How has your personal journey shaped your interest in STEM/Engineering?
My Tip: Focus on a unique experience that sparked or deepened your passion for engineering. This is your chance to be authentic—share what drives you! For example, In this essay, I focused on my natural curiosity and the moments that sparked my interest in engineering, particularly in biomedical technology. I highlighted how specific experiences inspired me to pursue a field where I could make a tangible impact. You could perhaps try to share an honest account of what initially drew you to STEM—whether it was a school project, a role model, or an interest you’ve explored independently.
Essay 2: What are your goals for the future with respect to STEM/Engineering, and how will Curie Academy help you achieve them?
My Tip: Here, connect your aspirations to the program, explaining how it aligns with your path in STEM. Personally, I shared my long-term goals in STEM and how CURIE Academy’s resources, faculty, and community would provide a foundation for my ambitions. It’s helpful to connect the program to your own goals and how the skills or connections you’ll gain will help you make a larger impact.
Essay 3: Highlight one unique lived experience and how it will contribute to Curie’s diverse community.
My Tip: This prompt invites you to share a meaningful experience that shaped your perspective. I chose an experience where I had an opportunity to step up in a leadership role, promoting inclusivity in STEM. This essay is a great place to discuss how your background or unique experiences add to the diversity of CURIE Academy’s community and how you’ll contribute to creating a supportive environment.
General Tip: I found it helpful to draft these essays in a separate document and edit each one carefully before pasting them into the application. CURIE values genuine stories, so focus on what makes your path unique.
Supporting Documents: Ensuring a Complete Application
Once you submit the Application Form, you’ll receive a confirmation email with links to upload these essential documents:
High School Transcript: You need a current transcript that shows your most recent grades. If you’re unsure where to find it, check with your school counselor.
Recommendation Form: Ask a math or science teacher, or your counselor, to complete this form by the deadline. Choose someone who understands your passion for STEM and can attest to your potential.
High School Profile: Some schools provide a document summarizing academic offerings and performance statistics, which adds context to your achievements. Contact your school’s guidance office if you need help finding it.
Financial Assistance Form (Optional): If cost is a concern, submit the Financial Assistance Form for a chance at a scholarship to help cover tuition and travel. A parent or guardian must complete it, providing proof of income.
Key Dates to Keep in Mind
Application Deadline: All parts of the application, including transcripts, recommendation, and optional financial aid forms, are due by the given date Late submissions are not considered.
Admissions Notification: Decisions are typically released in early April via email, giving you plenty of time to plan for the summer.
My Tips for a Strong Application
Start Early and Stay Organized: Begin gathering documents and working on essays as soon as possible. The application can only be saved on the same computer, so try to complete it in one session or save everything in advance.
Be Genuine in Your Essays: Curie Academy values authenticity. Write about what truly excites you in STEM, even if you’re still figuring out some aspects of your path.
Connect with Your Recommender: Give your teacher or counselor time to complete the recommendation form and communicate why Curie Academy is important to you so they can reflect that in their words.
Double-Check Everything Before Submitting: Once you hit “submit,” there’s no going back, so ensure each section is complete and accurate.
Wrapping Up Part 1: Applying to Curie Academy
The CURIE Academy application process is both rigorous and rewarding, offering a chance to showcase your STEM journey, goals, and the unique perspective you’d bring to Cornell’s diverse community. From eligibility requirements and detailed essays to supporting documents and deadlines, each step of the application is designed to help you reflect on your passion for STEM and demonstrate your potential.
If you’re considering CURIE Academy, remember that each part of the application is a chance to let your story shine—whether it's your academic achievements, a personal experience that shaped your interest, or your vision for the future. And while the application may seem challenging, it's also an exciting first step toward an immersive experience in STEM at one of the country’s top universities.
In the next post, I’ll give you an inside look at my experiences at CURIE Academy itself: from meeting other driven students to engaging in field sessions and hands-on projects that bring engineering to life, so stay tuned!
About the Author:
I'm Jophy Lin, a high school junior and researcher. I blog about a variety of topics, such as STEM research, competitions, shows, and my experiences in the scientific community. If you’re interested in research tips, competition insights, drama reviews, personal reflections on STEM opportunities, and other related topics, subscribe to my newsletter to stay updated!
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