# SEES High School Summer Intern Program The SEES (STEM Enhancement in Earth and Space Science) High School Summer Intern Program, hosted by The University of Texas at Austin in collaboration with NASA, offers an unparalleled opportunity for high school students to engage in cutting-edge research in STEM fields. This prestigious program combines virtual learning and an in-person internship experience, allowing students to explore earth science, space science, and data science while contributing to real NASA research initiatives. Best of all, this program is completely free, making it accessible to motivated students nationwide. ## Program Structure The SEES High School Summer Intern Program follows a hybrid format, combining online preparation with an in-person research experience. The program begins with a virtual learning phase, where students participate in webinars, online lessons, and collaborative projects to build foundational knowledge and skills. This remote component ensures that participants are well-prepared for the next phase: a hands-on, on-site internship at The University of Texas at Austin. The program spans several weeks during the summer, with participants dedicating significant time to online preparatory work before traveling to Austin for the in-person research experience. During the on-site portion, students work collaboratively in teams, contributing to NASA-affiliated research projects under the guidance of scientists, engineers, and university faculty. ## What Students Experience Participants in the SEES program gain firsthand experience conducting research in areas such as earth science, space science, and data science. Activities include analyzing real NASA datasets, using tools and techniques employed by scientists, and presenting findings to peers and mentors. Students explore topics like climate change, remote sensing, planetary science, and more, all while learning to solve complex problems and think critically about scientific challenges. Mentorship is a cornerstone of the program. Students work closely with NASA scientists, university researchers, and graduate students, receiving personalized guidance and insights into careers in STEM. Additionally, the program emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, preparing students for the interdisciplinary nature of modern scientific endeavors. ## Why It Matters for College Applications The SEES High School Summer Intern Program offers a significant boost to college applications. Participation demonstrates initiative, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to STEM fields—all qualities that admissions officers value. By engaging in NASA-affiliated research, students set themselves apart with unique experiences that highlight their ability to tackle real-world scientific problems. Furthermore, the mentorship and networking opportunities provided by the program can lead to strong recommendation letters and long-term connections in the STEM community. ## Eligibility The SEES program is open to high school students currently in grades 10 through 12 who reside in the United States. Applicants should have a strong interest in STEM fields, particularly in earth science, space science, and data science. While no specific prerequisites are listed, students with coursework or experience in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics are likely to benefit the most from this opportunity. ## How to Participate To apply for the SEES High School Summer Intern Program, students must complete an online application, which typically includes a personal statement, academic information, and letters of recommendation. Applicants should carefully review the program’s official website for detailed instructions and deadlines. Since this is a competitive program, it is recommended that students highlight their passion for STEM, showcase relevant experiences, and emphasize their eagerness to contribute to NASA-affiliated research. For more information and to access the application, visit the SEES program’s official website: [SEES High School Summer Intern Program](https://www.csr.utexas.edu/sees/).