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Despite advancements in medicine, health outcomes remain uneven across populations due to social, economic, and systemic factors. This research project investigates the root causes and potential solutions to health disparities through a public health lens. Students will identify a specific health disparity, such as differences in chronic disease prevalence, access to care, or mental health outcomes, and develop research questions grounded in epidemiological literature, community health frameworks, and social determinants of health. The project emphasizes mixed-methods research, incorporating qualitative interviews, focus groups, or surveys, as well as statistical data analysis using public health datasets. The project culminates in a proposal for a community health intervention that translates students’ research into a concrete solution addressing a specific health disparity. Students will design a targeted intervention, such as a public awareness campaign, school-based initiative, or community outreach program, supported by data, stakeholder insights, and public health frameworks. The proposal will emphasize feasibility, ethical considerations, and the potential for real-world impact.
Students explore the concept of health disparities and examine how systemic, economic, and social factors contribute to unequal health outcomes.
Students select a specific health disparity and develop research questions informed by epidemiological literature and public health frameworks.
Students gather and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data, using interviews, surveys, or public health datasets to investigate their chosen issue.
Students synthesize findings to design a targeted community health intervention that addresses the root causes of the disparity.
Students present their intervention proposals, highlighting data-driven solutions, ethical considerations, and potential for community impact.
Nova Scholar Project Pods are structured programs consisting of six sessions. In each session, small groups of 2 to 6 students collaborate under the guidance of an expert mentor. Each session lasts about an hour and includes a combination of lectures and group discussions centered on a specific subject. The ultimate goal is to create an engaging and meaningful final project.
Nova Scholar stands out as one of the most impactful academic and extracurricular programs due to our:
1. Exceptional Mentors: Our mentors are current students or alumni from top-tier universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and MIT. Their firsthand experience and academic excellence offer students top-quality guidance.
2. Results-Oriented Approach: We emphasize meaningful outcomes—students develop real-world, high-impact portfolio projects. We also provide support for publishing work, submitting apps, and entering prestigious competitions like research fairs and the Congressional App Challenge.
3. Highly Personalized Learning: We recognize that every student is different. Even in group settings, our instructors tailor examples and adapt the curriculum to meet individual needs. At our core, we are passionate educators committed to bringing out each student’s best—making learning both valuable and enjoyable.
Nova Scholar blends expert mentorship, interactive learning, and access to real-world opportunities such as publications and competitions, and patent applications, empowering students to build strong academic portfolios and practical skills.
Yes, you can participate even if you’re not in middle school. However, keep in mind that the Project Pods are designed with a middle school audience in mind. If you're looking for a more advanced challenge and already have some background knowledge, we suggest exploring the Research or Nova Patent tracks. These are better suited for high school students as they offer in-depth exploration and create strong, application-ready final products—especially if you already have a clear academic interest.
All Nova programs are conducted online, allowing students to participate from anywhere in the world.
Each program includes one hour-long session per week. In addition, students should plan for 1–2 hours of independent work outside of class. The total time may vary depending on that week's specific assignments and expectations.
If a student misses a session, they can access all course materials and Zoom recordings to stay on track. It’s up to the student to review what was missed and complete any assignments independently.
Although sessions are interactive, most students complete their own written project. Some pods include group presentations, allowing for peer collaboration while still emphasizing individual research and analysis.
Once a student completes the enrollment process on the individual Pod page, they will receive a confirmation email. Seven days before the first session, students will receive calendar invitations and an email with a reminder of Pod expectations. Students are then ready to get started!
By enrolling, students acknowledge the scheduled timing of Pod sessions. Session recordings are available after each session, but missed sessions are non-refundable. Are refund policies consist of the following:
1. If you have paid but the first session hasn’t taken place yet: → You are eligible for a full refund (up to 100%).
2. If you withdraw partway through the program: → You may receive a refund for any sessions that have not yet occurred.
We kindly ask that you notify Nova Scholar as early as possible if you can no longer attend, so we may offer your spot to another student.