Sustainable Engineering Leaders of the Future (SELF)

2024 SELF camp cohort in front of the UMaine Forest Bioproducts Research Institute

The Sustainable Engineering Leaders of the Future (SELF) Residential Summer Institute for High School Students is a week-long, no-cost program that connects Maine high school students to STEM career pathways. Students will explore cutting-edge research at the University of Maine by participating in demonstrations, hands-on projects and field trips. Participants will also have recreational activities at the New Balance Student Recreation Center.

This program is a partnership between College of Engineering, School of Forest Resources, Forest Bioproducts Research Institute and University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H. Funding provided by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), USDA.

No-cost residential institute

Week-Long program

June 21 – 27, 2026

Application Deadline

April 30, 2026

Institute activities include

SELF camp participant using a microscope
  • DIY STEM group research experience and presentation.
  • Observation and work on chemical and physical processes in the making of transportation fuels (ethanol, jet fuel) from woody biomass.
  • Focus group on renewable energy in Maine.
  • AI seminars and hands-on activities.
  • Recreational opportunities aligned with college preparation.

To qualify for the institute applicants must

  • Have an interest in science and technology.
  • Submit a report card.
  • Submit an essay on why they want to participate in the institute.

Questions?

Email chelsea.mullin@maine.edu.