The program will provide all transportation, lodging, activity admissions and meals during the program. You may bring spending money for things such as snacks or souvenirs.
Can I bring my own laptop?
The Academy will provide you with a laptop to use for the two-week program. You are welcome to bring your personal laptop. The Appalachian STEM Academy is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.
Do I need a physical copy of my birth certificate and/or passport or will a picture on my phone of it work?
Yes. You will need a physical copy of either your birth certificate or passport. We will tour/visit certain places that require either of these documents.
Are cell phones, and other electronic devices allowed?
Cell phones are allowed and will be used to communicate with the group through WhatsApp. Students are not allowed to use cell phones or other electronic devices during research times unless given permission from the mentor or resident teacher.
Will I be able to do laundry?
Yes. There are laundry facilities on site. The Academy will provide laundry detergent/softener/dryer sheets. Times will be set aside for everyone to do laundry should they need to.
What is the schedule during the program?
Please see this sample calendar that illustrates the daily schedule for participants. Please note this is only an example of the schedule and specific activities are still being determined and subject to change.
Is it ok for me to leave for part of a day or a couple of days for other events or family activities?
No. Students must be able to attend the full week. Part-time participation is not an option.
Is it ok for family members to visit me during the program?
Due to safety and security concerns, outside visitors, including family members, are not permitted to visit during the program. Family and friends will be invited to attend the final presentations on the last day of the program only.
Will I be able to attend religious services?
Prior to the program, please email an ORAU staff member to request accommodations. Reasonable efforts will be made to allow attendance to religious services.
If I am taking college classes or involved in other programs, will I have time to do the classes and homework while at the program?
While at the Academy, you can do other work during your free time and after bed check. However, the Appalachian STEM Academy has a very detailed schedule, and you will have limited time for other classes/programs.
Where will we be staying, and will I have a roommate?
We will be lodging in Oak Ridge, TN at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. All students will be assigned a roommate by program staff. You will complete some roommate questions on the Student Information Survey that you will complete for your onboarding in Zintellect. We will do our best to assign you with a roommate with similar interests. You will not be able to choose your roommate, and we do not lodge siblings or friends from the same school in rooms together.
Do I need to purchase a plane ticket to Oak Ridge?
No! Program staff will purchase your airline tickets on your behalf based on the information that you provide via the travel survey linked in Zintellect.
What if I have a dietary restriction or food allergy?
The Academy will accommodate your dietary restrictions and food allergies. Please make sure that you describe your needs during the onboarding process and notify staff if there are any changes after completing onboarding.
What type of supervision is there at the Appalachian STEM Academy?
Resident Teachers will supervise the students when they are not in their research groups. During the research day, students are supervised by both mentors and Resident Teachers. During the overnight hours, night chaperones will monitor hallways to ensure the safety of the students.
Can I pick my research topic? If not, how are topics assigned?
No, you do not get to pick your topic. Students will list preferences for research topics on the student survey during onboarding in Zintellect. Program staff will make every effort to match you to a research topic that meets your interests.
Will I have access to gym equipment or be able to exercise?
There is a hotel gym that students will have access to, with Resident Teacher supervision.
What is Appalachian STEM Academy doing to protect against COVID-19?
As part of your appointment, you will be required to comply with Environmental, Safety and Health requirements of the hosting facility.