Community-Academic Scholars
Empowering students through community-based research
IHSI’s Community-Academic Scholars Initiative offers University of Illinois undergraduate students the opportunity to pursue community-based research projects in Urbana-Champaign over the summer.
We seek dedicated and passionate undergrads eager to make a difference in the local community.
Program Overview
Scholars from disciplines across campus work with an academic mentor and a mentor from a community organization to address critical issues related to health, poverty, and/or social inequity. Each scholar will contribute to a research project designed to directly benefit community members served by the partner organization. This includes research projects, surveys, program evaluations, needs assessments, or similar projects.
During the 10-week program, students develop applied research skills for measuring and maximizing impact in their work. Scholars come together each week for a coffee hour and facilitated discussion. Invited speakers provide practical guidance to the group, covering topics such as:
- Careers in research
- Conducting research in community settings
- The value of team-based science
- Presenting research to different audiences
The program concludes with students showcasing their work at a final awards ceremony.
Student Scholars
Get eligibility, application, and program details to make an impact this summer.
Program Collaborators
Get involved with the Community-Academic Scholars Initiative and collaborate on future programs.
Contact Emily Stone
Maria Becerra
"Participating in this program has changed my views on research. With other research projects I wasn't as passionate or driven because at the end of the journey was just a presentation or publication, but for community-engaged research there is actual action driven by our research, so we can see the effects of our hard work and make a positive impact that is noticeable and tangible, not just a piece of paper."
Kaiya Bernard
"I have been wanting to get a Master's in Public Health to become a more well-rounded doctor in the future. I think that this project has brought me a lot of clarity and knowledge before I indulge into the Master's in Public Health and I am so excited about how I can relate this project to my future studies."
Alison (Ali) Brandvold
"I started this summer with interest in studying clinical nutrition as a healthcare provider. The Community-Academic Scholars Program has helped me become even more passionate about nutrition and how it can be used as a powerful tool to improve people's health regardless of their socioeconomic background."
Gabrielle (Gabby) Calderon
"Participating in this program allowed me to learn more about organizing community research, gain more research skills, and create lasting connections with other students, community members, and faculty. I also gained a lot of personal and academic growth this summer."