If you're a high school student with a passion for engineering, the MIT Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) program is definitely an opportunity that should be on your radar! You will get the chance to dive deeper into the world of radar technology and further your knowledge of engineering.

This intensive two-week course, hosted by the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), can also significantly enhance your college applications! Engaging in this program will be a great way to show colleges your drive for learning engineering beyond the classroom, a trait highly valued by college admissions committees. To make things easier for you, we have put together a guide that walks through everything you need to know about LLRISE and why you should participate!

What is MIT LLRISE?

The Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) is a two-week radar workshop specifically designed for rising high school seniors. It was started in 2012 as one of the first of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Lincoln Laboratory’s STEM educational outreach efforts, which in total have reached 8,000 students annually. As the first program of its kind, LLRISE was started by outreach coordinator Chiamaka Agbasi-Porter, who continues to lead the program to this day.

Through MIT LLRISE, you will learn about radar, modular RF design and circuitry, introduction to electromagnetics, radar signal processing, antenna design and the Doppler Effect, and target ranging and pulse compression. You will also gain experience in populating electrical boards, practicing soldering, and building a Doppler radar and range radar. The classes will be held at the Laboratory’s campus in Lexington, Massachusetts. In the evenings, you'll return to and stay at the MIT dorms.

LLRISE is offered completely free of charge, thanks to funding from the Department of Defense (DoD) under the National Defense Education Program. As of 2022, this initiative has seen 234 students graduate over a decade, with 98% of them currently majoring or working in STEM fields. Notably, the program boasts a high representation of women, with more than 70% of LLRISE alumni being female, and it has been particularly successful among first-generation college students.

Is it prestigious? 

Yes, admission to the Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) is both prestigious and highly competitive. Each year, hundreds of students from across the country apply to this exclusive program, submitting comprehensive applications that include three essays, two teacher recommendations, and a transcript, similar to the college application process. Despite the high volume of applicants, only a fraction can be accepted due to the program's rigorous selection criteria and limited class size. The acceptance rate stands at about 5%, with approximately 20 students making the cut each year. 

What is the application timeline and structure?

For those aiming to apply to the Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) for the 2024 program, here's the timeline:

• Application Opening: Mark your calendar for January 8, 2024. This is when applications for LLRISE officially open. 

• Application Deadline: You have until March 7, 2024, 10:00 PM EST to submit your application online. Make sure everything is completed and submitted by this time to be considered for the program.

• Recommendations Deadline: All the recommendations from your teachers must be submitted by March 14, 2024, 11:59 PM EST.

• Admission Decisions: By mid-May 2024, you'll receive an email informing you of your admission status. 

• Program Duration: The program runs from July 14, 2024, when you'll move into the MIT dormitories, until July 27, 2024, the last day of the program. 

Location: The LLRISE program takes place across two locations: the MIT campus in Cambridge, MA, and the Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA. You'll get to experience life on the MIT campus, staying in the dormitories from the move-in day on July 14 until move-out on July 27, while taking classes at the Lincoln Laboratory..

Cost: Participation in LLRISE is entirely free. The only expense you'll need to cover is your transportation to and from MIT. Don't worry about getting to Lincoln Laboratory from MIT; transportation between the sites is provided at no extra cost.

How is the program structured and who is it for?

The Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) program is aimed at high school students completing their junior year, specifically designed for those who hold a deep passion for science, math, and engineering. The program is structured with classes during the day at the Lincoln Laboratory and evenings spent on the MIT campus. 

Eligibility Criteria:

1. U.S. Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Unfortunately, foreign citizens who are permanent residents do not meet the eligibility requirements.

2. Passion for STEM: A strong interest in science, math, and engineering is crucial. LLRISE looks for students who are enthusiastic about diving deep into these subjects.

3. Educational Stage: You should be completing your junior year in high school at the time of application.

4. Diversity and Inclusion: The program strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including but not limited to African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, Pacific Islanders, women, persons with disabilities, and persons from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative reflects LLRISE's commitment to fostering diversity within the STEM fields.

7 reasons why you should participate in MIT LLRISE

1. You will gain practical engineering experience 

At MIT LLRISE, you have the unique opportunity to engage hands-on with radar technology, an area of engineering with broad applications from national defense to weather forecasting. You'll be tasked with constructing both Doppler and range radars. This practical aspect allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, such as interpreting radar signals to determine the speed and distance of objects. However, the complexity of these projects requires a strong foundation in math and physics, and the learning curve can be steep for those without prior exposure.

2. You will have access and exposure to expert mentorship

The program connects participants with experts from MIT and Lincoln Laboratory, who have deep knowledge in various STEM fields. This mentorship can provide insights into cutting-edge research and technological advancements. 

3. You will gain insights into college life

Living in MIT dormitories offers a preview of college life, including independence and the collegiate social environment. This can be particularly beneficial for gauging your readiness for college and adjusting to the pace and responsibilities of higher education. This can be a confidence booster for your transition to college. Still, keep in mind this experience is a snapshot and may not fully represent the typical college experience, given the program's short duration and focused nature.

4. Competitive edge for college applications 

Participation in LLRISE can distinguish your college applications. Admissions officers often look favorably on applicants who have demonstrated commitment to their field through summer programs like LLRISE. For example, successfully completing a challenging project at LLRISE can serve as a compelling talking point in college essays or interviews, showcasing your problem-solving skills and dedication to STEM. 

5. Networking with future STEM leaders

LLRISE attracts high-achieving students from across the United States, providing a rich environment for networking. This community allows you to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and form connections that can last into your professional careers. For example, past participants have found future college roommates, project collaborators, and professional contacts through the program. 

6. Emphasis on diversity and inclusion

The program's commitment to diversity ensures a learning environment that includes a wide range of perspectives, leading to diverse viewpoints and problem-solving approaches. 

7. Financial accessibility

LLRISE is free, excluding personal transportation costs to and from MIT. This makes the program accessible to students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in such a high-caliber STEM program. For instance, the program covers essentials like housing and meals, as well as transportation to Lincoln Laboratory, reducing the financial burden on participants and their families. 

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