FOR ALL OF YOUR QUESTIONS & CONCERNS

So what exactly would I be doing during this program?

For the first half of the sessions, we will teach you how micropipette, dilute solutions accurately, and work with fruit flies. We'll go over all the possible protocols that you might be able to use for your independent project, explain how to separate female and male flies, describe how to make fly food, etc. Following this introductory period, you will brainstorm your own project idea, we'll help you work through the details, and then you'll have several more sessions of time to work independently, experiment, and gather data. Students will present their findings at a day-long symposium with students, faculty, family, and alumni. Throughout the program, students will also use multiple forms of media to share their experiences, and work with mentors to explore careers surrounding science and medicine.

​What can I hope to learn?

​Students gain hands-on training in basic laboratory techniques and conceptual skills including hypothesis generation, experimental design, and data analysis. Additionally, the course is designed to reinforce critical thinking skills, peer-to-peer mentoring techniques, and multimedia communication skills. The program provides a unique opportunity for students to learn whether scientific research is an appealing career path, to learn many important life skills that will be useful regardless of future career choices, and to become part of a growing and active community of alumni.

All these past projects look so hard and confusing! I don't know how to do this type of stuff.

Don't worry! Most of the students entering the program think so too. "Testing Fly Head Trauma" sounds fancier than it is. You'll be fully equipped to understand everything and do an experiment after the introductory time.  Students are encouraged to develop their own hypotheses with relevance to human health and behavior. Faculty will help students refine their questions if necessary so that they fit within the time, budget, and equipment restraints of the course.

Check out some of the research projects from previous students here: ​www.tripinitiative.com/blog.

What should I bring to the sessions?

We recommend a folder, a notebook, a pen/pencil, a laptop, and a calculator.  We'll supply the flies!

What's the difference between the spring and summer program?

The spring program take place at William Tennent High School, and the summer program takes place at Temple University.  Both programs are comprised of two separate sessions, a Morning Session and an Afternoon Session.  The spring sessions run on Saturdays, while the summer sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

​Where are the classes held?

During the spring sessions, classes are held at William Tennent High School (www.centennialsd.org/wt; 333 Centennial Road, Warminster, PA 18974). During the summer sessions, classes are held at the Science Education Research Center (SERC) building on Temple University’s main campus (cst.temple.edu/research/SERC; 1925 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19122).

Who may apply for the program?

All high school students from Philadelphia and the surrounding communities may apply.  If you are a motivated, curious, and responsible student interested in learning more about the field of research then this program is for you!

How much does the TRIP Initiative cost?

​Fox Chase Cancer Center believes it is critical to provide training for any and all motivated students regardless of a student’s financial status. Therefore, TRIP is FREE for all students!

​Will I be working in a group or on my own?

​Yes! Some assignments will be done in small groups, but your independent research project can be done on your own. Faculty and teaching assistants provide mentorship as needed, and you may choose to work with other students if you want to.

​Is there homework?

Yes, lots of it!  Students will complete self-learning packets to learn information about fly development, reinforce critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills.  Students can anticipate spending 30 min to several hours on each assignment. All assignments are managed through the free online platform, Schoology.

​What's the instructor to student ratio?

​Each section contains 7-9 students, at least two instructors, and at least one teaching assistant.  

​Who teaches the TRIP Initiative?

Although the instructors change from year to year, all have an advanced degree in science and/or education and have spent a minimum of three years in a research lab.  Additionally, collaborators include industry professionals, high school teachers, and other professionals from Fox Chase Cancer Center.  Read up on the current and former instructors here: www.tripinitiative.com/about-us.html