ESTEEM/SER-Quest Program

The ESTEEM/SER-Quest Program is an intensive four-week, research-focused summer program hosted by the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. It exposes rising and current high school seniors to college-level engineering research, mentorship, and college-preparation activities. Participants develop a research proposal, complete a literature search, and engage with undergraduate and graduate students and faculty. The program is commuter-only for summer 2026 with no housing available.

Four weeks of supervised engineering research project experience, mentorship, development of a research proposal and literature search, college application and financial aid guidance, networking with undergraduate and graduate students; program participation is provided at no cost.

Academically strong high school students; interested students must have a minimum 3.2 GPA with no C's in math and science courses, have completed Trigonometry, Chemistry, and Pre-Calculus with a B or better (Pre-Calculus must be completed by the summer of 12th grade), and be available full-time for the four-week program. A parent/guardian virtual interview is part of the acceptance process.

Complete the online application form, submit a 250-word essay and resume, provide two teacher recommendations (math and science), have high school counselor submit transcript, and participate in a virtual parent/guardian interview if selected.