Research Programs
with Polygence
Build your expertise or explore new topics with Polygence’s mentored research programs. You’ll work on popular topics like Neuroscience and AI, business, healthcare, climate change, sports analytics, civic engagement, and more!
About Polygence
Envision by WorldStrides is excited to partner with Polygence, the leader in mentored research experiences for pre-college students covering diverse disciplines across humanities and STEM. Polygence’s team of academics and educators is committed to preparing students for colleges and careers by making research opportunities more widely accessible to all interested students. Learn more about their story.
Polygence’s expansive mentor network offers students with any interest a unique opportunity to personalize their own education and pursue their unique interests through structured online research programs. These programs pair students with PhD-level mentors from top U.S. universities, providing invaluable mentorship and guidance through the academic research process, building core skills like critical thinking, grit and resilience, and data analysis all while generating tangible artifacts like research papers, podcasts, business plans, and docuseries that can used as part of the college admissions process. This is an opportunity for students to grow academically and personally, preparing them for the challenges of higher education and future careers.
Polygence research programs come in two forms:
Polygence Pods—online short courses in groups of 6 or less— where students work alongside peers with similar interests, gaining genuine experience and deepening their subject-matter expertise under the watchful guidance of a world-class mentor. Pods courses span a wide range of topics including computer science and machine learning to the evolution of healthcare and cancer immunotherapies. Check the program page for an update on what’s available: current courses.
Polygence Core—one-on-one mentorship- already know what you want to study? Or have a desire to level up and research a specific topic of your choosing? Polygence’s core program aligns a student with a subject expert mentor who will guide their learning and development through 10 dedicated mentoring sessions and accompanied student-led research over a 3-to-6-month period. The results will be an artifact as unique as the initial research proposal but can include construction of a research paper, creation of an App, construction of an MVP product prototype, or recording of an academic podcast. More information on previous projects can be found on the Polygence core program page.
Which Polygence Research Program is Right For You?
Polygence Pods short courses are best if you:
- Want to get a foundational understanding of a relevant topic that interests you
- Are curious about a topic but not sure where to begin
- Are looking to create something real to highlight on a resume
- Want to confirm your interest in a future career option or college major
Polygence Core program is best if you:
- Have a strong interest in a specific topic area and want to understand that topic at an advanced level
- Desire to build advanced research skills and gain an advantage over your college-bound peers
- Work one-on-one with a PhD level mentor in a field of your choosing
- Create a unique artifact that demonstrates your deep commitment to a specific subject area
Benefits of a Polygence Research Experience
- Preparedness: Develop the skills and mindset you need to thrive in college, your career, and beyond. With personalized mentorship and a focus on your passions, you'll take the first steps toward creating a meaningful and fulfilling future.
- Authenticity: Explore a topic you truly care about and work with experts to bring your ideas to life. Your project will reflect your individuality and showcase the unique passions that drive you.
- Confidence: Partner with an experienced mentor who specializes in your chosen field. Through personalized guidance, you’ll gain the confidence to tackle challenges and expand your academic and professional network.
- Perseverance: Strengthen your research skills and build resilience as you take on college-level challenges. Your commitment and hard work will set you apart as you deepen your expertise in your area of interest.
How to Register for a Polygence Program
Registration for a Polygence research program can been accomplished by:
- Selecting the program as an add-on as you register for your Envision summer 2025 high school program.
- Accessing directly through Polygence’s site.
- Contacting Envision’s Admissions team at 866-858-5323.