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 a faculty mentor and a mentor from a community organization to address critical issues related to health, poverty, and/or social inequality. 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.
Submit your interest
Submit a brief interest form to receive updates about the 2022 application cycle.
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
Scholar Impact Stories
Breanna Magpantay
“I learned a lot about myself, more about the research process and types of research from the keynote speakers we had, and how valuable the information I have collected can be towards helping underserved populations and those in need.”
Roxanne Patino
“Working on this project has allowed me to be more connected to the Champaign-Urbana community as it has allowed me to interact with the people, and more importantly, the kids that will make up this community in the future.”
Prim Poshyanonda
“This program taught me the importance of community-based research and how it is important to understand the needs of the community."
Maddie Welsh
“This opportunity really helped me to reach outside of my comfort zone and made me realize that I can become an important part of my community and make an impact in the lives of those around me.”