HOPE Scholars Summer Research Program

The Hope Scholars Program offers holistic support for students who are current or former foster youth, under legal guardianship, unaccompanied homeless, or disconnected.

The Hope Scholars Summer Research Program (Hope SRP) is designed to prepare current or former foster youth students interested in conducting research at the intersection of higher education and the Foster Youth experience. The program consists of working closely with a faculty-mentor and the Hope program manager to learn about the research process, graduate studies, and career options.

Summer Research Program Eligibility:

• Admitted into UC San Diego
• Former or current foster youth
• Full-time enrollment / undergraduate (12 units)
• Considered independent by the Office of Financial Aid
• California resident, U.S. Citizen, or permanent resident
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Requirements:

• Must commit to staying engaged during the duration of the scholarship (June 22 – August 14, 2026).
• Develop a research project/plan that examines an issue/question at the intersection of higher education and the Foster Youth experience.
• Develop a oral presentation for the Summer Research Conference (SRC) as well as a written report based on the research conducted.
• Maintain regular communication.
• Cannot have other employment during the 8-week program.
• Cannot be enrolled in summer courses.
• Need a faculty mentor/sponsor

Benefits:
• Learn about the research process
• Build your CV/Resume
• Receive 199 credit
• Develop presentation skills
• Social network
• Professional development
• Mentorship
• GRE Prep Course (to be determined if it will be offered)

For questions please contact:
Tamika Balderamos – tbalderamos@ucsd.edu
Berenice Jau – bjau@ucsd.edu