About

2020 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award Recipient

2020 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award Recipient logo

Each year, the Karsh STEM Scholars Program attracts hundreds of competitive high school students who are interested in beginning their STEM careers at Howard University. Scholars selected for the program are awarded a scholarship for tuition, mandatory fees, room, board and an allowance for books associated with attending the University and are required to ultimately pursue, a PhD, or a combined MD-PhD, within a STEM discipline. The program aims to challenge students, through rigorous coursework and preparation, to live, prosper and contribute to a world that is increasingly diverse and global in nature. Since 2017, the Karsh STEM Scholars Program has been home to some of the University’s most talented students, many of whom are student researchers and interns at STEM-related organizations across the world.

Our Mission

The Karsh STEM Scholars Program’s mission is to increase the number of underrepresented minorities who earn a PhD or combined MD/PhD in a STEM discipline.  Participants must be interested in pursuing a career in research and/or teaching, policy development or a leadership role in government or the corporate world. 

How to Apply
Karsh Scholar Mission
The Complete Package
  • Tuition Scholarship (either 75% or 100% depending on family income)
  • Room + board
  • Books + supplies stipend
  • Mandatory Summer Bridge Program (incoming freshman)
  • Research internships (required during summers)
  • Study abroad
  • In-program Advising
  • Large & small study groups
  • Tutoring
  • Mentoring
  • Cultural arts

Scholar Spotlight

Ladaisha Thompson

Cohort 1

Being a member of the inaugural cohort of the Karsh STEM Scholars Program is so special to me. I’m not only able to meet so many wonderful, bright people who look like me, but I’m learning just how important diversity in research and STEM is. It’s so exciting to be able to use research to further my passion for designing biological based tools, engineering them, and discovering how they can save lives.