Student Research Corner
Student Publications
Journal of Emerging Investigators — a free, open-access, peer-reviewed journal specifically for middle and high school researchers. Submissions must be made by an adult mentor on the student's behalf, and papers are reviewed by real scientists before publication.
Research Posters
Basic poster design guidance: lead with your question and key finding, keep text minimal and readable from a few feet away, and use one clear visual (chart or diagram) rather than several small ones.
Science Fair Resources
Society for Science — organizers of the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Their "Find a Fair" tool helps students locate an affiliated regional or state science fair.
Understanding Health Research
General-audience guidance on interpreting health and science reporting — recognizing the difference between a single preliminary study and well-established scientific consensus.
How to Read Scientific Papers
See the full guide already published in the Research & Evidence Center — cross-linked here for students interested in doing their own research.
Wellness Blog
Suggested cadence and content, based on what's sustainable alongside a full course load:
- Research literacy pieces — expanding on "How to Read Scientific Papers" with real examples
- Reflections on community involvement (Teen Court, youth advisory work) — kept general, no case specifics
- Monthly public health updates — short summaries of new SAMHSA/CDC/NIMH publications
- Guest posts from coaches or mentors using the site
Volunteer & Leadership
Youth Volunteer Opportunities
A directory of vetted, youth-friendly volunteer opportunities — starting with the two already referenced in this library's own development: Durham County Teen Court & Restitution Program and Orange County's Volunteers for Youth Teen Court.
Teen Court
Teen Court programs let teenagers serve as jurors, attorneys, and bailiffs for peer offenders — a genuinely hands-on way to learn about the justice system while contributing real service.
Community Service Ideas
- Tutoring or mentoring younger students
- Volunteering at a hospital, hospice, or clinic front desk
- Organizing a donation or supply drive for a local shelter
- Assisting at a community health fair or screening event
Leadership Development
Leadership grows through real responsibility, not just titles — seeking out a role with actual ownership (organizing an event, leading a small project) builds more genuine skill than a title alone.
Youth Advisory Council
Many North Carolina counties have a Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) with statutory youth board seats — a genuine, appointed civic role for young people interested in justice policy. Contact your county's Justice Services department to learn about current openings.
Media Library
Educational Videos
Curated playlists from credible sources — SAMHSA, NIMH, and CDC all maintain official YouTube channels with short, accessible videos on youth mental health topics.
Podcasts
To be curated once this section is built out — vetted for accuracy and appropriateness before being featured here.
Infographics
SAMHSA and CDC both publish free, shareable infographics on youth mental health topics — a good source to draw from once this section is developed.
Downloadable Presentations
Original slide decks (e.g., a classroom-ready version of the Coach Implementation Guide) to be developed as this section grows.