SECONDARY STUDENT TRAINING PROGRAM (SSTP)

     The Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) at the University of Iowa's Belin-Blank Center offers an exceptional opportunity for talented high school students to engage in rigorous, hands-on research experiences in STEM fields. This highly selective program immerses students in advanced scientific inquiry under the guidance of esteemed faculty and researchers, fostering both academic and personal growth. Participants gain invaluable exposure to cutting-edge topics, engage in collaborative projects, and receive mentorship that prepares them for future success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, SSTP provides a transformative experience for the next generation of STEM leaders.     

      At the University of Iowa Center for Disabilities and Development, I conducted research on the effects of surgery on brain structure and language skills among children with isolated cleft of the lip and/or palate under the mentorship of Amy L. Conrad, PhD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics-Psychology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa.