Shreveport High School Seniors Have a New Opportunity with the SMART Program

High school students collaborating in a science lab for the SMART Program

News Summary

High school seniors in the Shreveport area are encouraged to apply for the SMART Program, a hands-on research initiative in science and medicine. The program, which has a proven track record of success since 1997, is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year with a deadline of February 28. Students who are academically advanced and passionate about healthcare fields can gain invaluable research experience and enhance their college applications through this program.

Shreveport High School Seniors: Exciting Opportunity Awaits with the SMART Program!

Hey there, high school seniors in the Shreveport area! If you’re dreaming of a future in the science and medical fields, then you might want to pay close attention to a fantastic opportunity that just opened up for the 2025-2026 school year. That’s right—the Bobbie Cates Hicks Science and Medicine Academic Research Training Program, better known as the SMART program, is now ready to welcome a new batch of budding scientists!

What is the SMART Program?

The SMART program is a wonderful initiative that focuses on high school seniors who are academically advanced and have an interest in pursuing careers in medicine, biomedical research, or even biomedical engineering. This program is jointly operated by some key players in our community, including BRF, LSU Health Shreveport, as well as the school boards of Caddo, Bossier, and DeSoto parishes. Doesn’t that sound impressive?

A Rich History of Success

Since its establishment in 1997, the SMART program has been instrumental in shaping the futures of its participants. Over the past 28 years, a total of 257 graduates have successfully completed the program, paving their paths toward brilliant academic journeys. Nearly 100% of these graduates are currently attending or have attended college, with over 80% majoring in fields closely related to science or health—talk about a proven track record!

Hands-On Research Experience

One of the standout features of the SMART program is its yearlong research experience that pairs students with faculty advisors at LSU Health Shreveport. This hands-on experience not only enriches the students’ knowledge and skills, but it also boosts their college applications and future career possibilities. With such a practical approach, students get a taste of what a real-life research environment feels like.

Who Can Join?

So, how do you know if you’re eligible? The SMART program is geared toward a select group of eight to twelve academically advanced high school seniors. If you hail from the Caddo, Bossier, or DeSoto parishes and have a passion for science and medicine, you might just be a perfect fit!

Important Dates to Remember

Mark your calendars, folks! The application deadline for this fabulous program is set for February 28 at 4 p.m.. Make sure to submit your application and take a step closer to a bright future in healthcare or biomedical fields.

Investing in Our Future

The SMART program is not just any educational program; it represents an essential investment in developing the regional science and technology workforce. Funding for this incredible initiative comes from generous donors, including the late Bobbie Cates Hicks and several local foundations. With support from the community, the program is set up for long-term success.

Planning Ahead

For those of you who are wondering about the next steps after participating in the program, you’re in good company. A remarkable 81% of SMART graduates aim for or have already embarked on postgraduate studies. This shows that the program not only prepares students for college but also for advanced degrees, further enhancing their expertise and career opportunities.

So, if you’re ready to kick-start your career in the exciting fields of science and medicine, hurry and get your application in for the SMART program. It might just be the perfect launchpad you’ve been looking for!