<p>Yes, in theory you can publish even as a high schooler. However, the likelihood of publishing in a reputable scientific journal is low. What RCPRS offers is immediate engagement with professors to do research. These projects are substantial in scope and you have ownership of it. Most undergraduates are typically hired in labs (if at all) to do grunt work not for significant work. Even for such jobs they have to keep knocking on many doors before they can even land something. </p>
<p>However, with RCPRS say in four years as undergraduate say you get a publication or two in a reputed journal, you would look very competitive for top graduate schools and/or prestigious fellowships.</p>
<p>Thanks, 2col. Could any other current students/parents please comment?
Cornell is the toughest choice financially for us - 4k is nice, but Cornell grant was very small, so we are asked to pay almost full tuition.</p>
<p>I know it is hard financially. We are in the same boat. However, you don’t get just 4k. You also get an additionally 8K as salary/expenses over the four years. Plus you may qualify for other competitive outside awards. In our case, there was a $15K over 3 years in sophomore year and a summer internship worth $6K. And an additional $2k for the sophomore year.</p>
<p>But, note that these awards are competitive and you have to seek them out. No guarantees. However, your RCPRS status helps to get it.</p>