A guided, structured research experience.
SPAN is a structured, six-month research experience where students are held to expectations to ensure productivity and intellectual stimulation.
Program at a Glance
6 months total
A full cycle is six months from the start date: 1.5 months of guided reading followed by 4.5 months of research.
4–6 hours per week
In addition to mentor meetings, students commit an average of four to six hours per week across readings and research work.
Free, always
No program fees, no application fees, no upsells. Mentors volunteer their time and SPAN handles the logistics.
Ends with a report
The program concludes with a written research report submitted to an appropriate journal or venue.
Phase 1 — Reading Period (1.5 months)
Every student begins with a 1.5-month reading period. This phase builds the background needed to do real research. Students may study foundational texts, key papers, and problem sets chosen by the mentor to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topics relevant to their research.
Weekly meetings
At least one hour per week with the mentor to discuss readings, clarify concepts, and check progress.
Reading report
At the end of the 1.5 months, the student submits a written reading report to the mentor summarizing what they have learned.
Mentor decision
By the end of the reading period, the mentor must decide whether the student is ready to move into the research phase. This is a real evaluation, not a formality.
Finishing early
If a student finishes the reading list early, they may begin research work — but the reading report is still due at the end of the period, and the mentor's decision is still made at that time.
Phase 2 — Research Period (4.5 months)
Once the mentor approves the student, the 4.5-month research period begins. This is where the student does original work under mentor supervision, applying their knowledge and research skills to an unanswered question.
The research question
The research question is decided by the mentor. Mentors may, at their discretion, invite the student to suggest directions, but the scope and problem framing rest with the mentor.
Biweekly meetings
At least one hour every two weeks with the mentor to review progress, discuss obstacles, and plan next steps.
Final report
By the end of the six months, the student produces a formal written research report. The report will be posted by SPAN in an appropriate venue.
Continuing beyond six months
Students and mentors may choose to continue working together after the six months, but the mentor is under no obligation to do so. The formal SPAN commitment ends at six months.
Summer and Scheduling
If the six-month cycle crosses summer, the mentor and student may mutually decide to pause. Time taken off during summer does not count against the six months — the clock resumes when work resumes.
Any other pauses or schedule changes are negotiated directly between the student and mentor, with SPAN available to help mediate if needed.
What SPAN Promises
SPAN does not promise publications, admissions outcomes, or credentials. What we promise is a real, structured research experience: a mentor who takes the student seriously, a clear timeline, honest evaluation, and a final report that reflects the student's actual work.