Student Testimonials

"Neurons Can Fly was one of the best experiences of my life. The labs felt like home, the staff and counselors were warm and encouraging, and the activities were not only fun but brought everyone together in a way that made each day feel meaningful. I made friendships I believe will last a lifetime, and I left each day excited to wake up for the next. If you love neuroscience or even just want to explore it in a welcoming, joyful environment, I can’t recommend this program enough—it’s where curiosity meets community, and where you discover that science is even better when you share it with others."

"Neurons Can Fly opened my eyes to research and the impacts of neuroscience in a way that was both immersive and inspiring. Before the program, I had a vague curiosity about the brain—but through hands—on activities and mentorship from real researchers, I came away not just more informed, but more motivated to further explore neuroscience. It made me realize that neuroscience is not just for labs but it is a field that can change lives. This program gave me the confidence to pursue research and had motivated me to think about how I can contribute to the field. If you’re even slightly curious about how the brain works or how science can be a force for good, I would highly recommend Neurons Can Fly and the place you start."

"This camp became one of the best weeks of my life. Not only was I able to explore hands-on neuroscience through dissections, PCR tests, and working with microscopes (things I'd been dreaming of doing all my life), but I was able to do all of it next to some of the funniest and kindest people I've ever met. Everyone was so friendly and passionate -- they were, genuinely, my kind of people. Through this camp, I've come to realize I enjoy working in a lab setting, and I hope to pursue something similar in the future. Would definitely recommend it."

"Simply incredible experience with a vasty unique take on the neuroscience field. Lots of friends made there and made a lasting impact on me. Staff were very open and offered lots of advice on my future. Without a doubt would apply again."

"This program has immersed me straight into the world of modern biological research, as well as demonstrated firsthand the growing importance of AI in a constantly evolving field."

"I had a lot of fun discovering a new interest and research and meeting likeminded students from around the country. I got a great feel of what it’s like to be a student on campus living in the dorms and having the opportunity to explore during free time. Also, the counselors were great to get to know personally and as a U of M student."

"I really enjoyed this program and would recommend it to anyone interested in research/neuroscience! We learned a lot of basic research skills through well-organized modules. This program has given me a little insight into what research as a lab might look like and has definitely inspired me to keep pursuing research."

"Excellent hands-on neuroscience experience that is available nowhere else given the University’s prestige and access to certain technologies and tools. Try this out, and see if it’s your calling!"

"I would say that I learned a lot about what research and analyzing is like a real lab. As someone who wants to be a scientist, this was very eye opening for me, because I didn’t even know what wet and dry lab was before. It definitely gives you real life experience of being a scientist, while still having lots of fun."