Minority Introduction to Engineering, and Science at MIT (MITES)

MIT's Minority Introduction to Engineering, and Science (MITES) is a rigorous six-week residential summer program that introduces promising minority high school seniors to engineering and science. The program stresses the value and rewards of pursuing technical degrees and careers.

Through funding from the National Human Genome Research Institute, the Broad Institute sponsors a genomics research project and lecture series for MITES students. Last summer's research project included looking at genetic-based diseases, such as breast cancer, Rett syndrome, Werner's Syndrome or cystic fibrosis. Under the guidance of Broad researchers, the students found mutations in the diseased genomes and studied their effects. Lecture topics included recombinant DNA technologies, an overview of genomics research, the applied use of mathematics and computer science to genomics problems, and the ethical and social implications of genomics research.

Once selected, all educational, housing, meals and activity costs are covered for the full six weeks. Students, however, are responsible for transportation to and from MIT, and medical insurance coverage.

Students are chosen based on several criteria, such as high school grades, written essays, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores (PSAT or SAT I scores), participation in extracurricular activities and volunteer work.

For more information, go to the MIT MITES web site >>