Environmental Science & Policy Scholars Program (Duke)

The **Environmental Science & Policy Scholars Program** at **Duke University** is a summer opportunity for high school students interested in how science, policy, and society intersect around environmental challenges. Participants work with **Duke faculty and researchers** to explore topics such as climate change, conservation, sustainable resource use, and environmental justice. Through lectures, discussions, and applied activities, students gain a clearer understanding of how scientific evidence informs policy decisions at local, national, and global levels. This program is a strong fit for students who enjoy **STEM**, are curious about environmental issues, and are considering majors such as environmental science, public policy, ecology, or related fields. It is especially relevant for students who like connecting scientific concepts to real-world problems and who are interested in research, advocacy, or public service. Experiences from the program can strengthen **college applications** by demonstrating sustained interest in environmental topics, exposure to university-level coursework, and the ability to engage with complex, interdisciplinary material. Students may also develop writing, analysis, and collaboration skills that are valuable in both STEM and social science pathways.