Teen entrepreneur launches free mentorship platform for student researchers

Riya Velhal, a junior at an Oregon high school, developed StratScholar after encountering significant obstacles during her own research internship. Recognizing that many students lack access to proper guidance and resources needed to pursue independent research projects, she built a comprehensive platform to bridge this gap.

The free-to-use initiative connects young researchers with mentors who can guide them through the research process while helping them develop critical analytical and communication skills. By democratizing access to research mentorship, StratScholar aims to level the playing field for students who might not have access to such opportunities through their schools or families.

StratScholar provides more than mentorship connections. The platform also facilitates the publication of student research work, giving young researchers the opportunity to share their findings and build portfolios that could strengthen their college applications. This dual focus on guidance and publication represents a comprehensive approach to supporting student-led research.

The platform's creation underscores a growing recognition that research skills and experience have become increasingly valuable for students pursuing higher education and careers in science, technology, and related fields. By making these experiences accessible regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic background, StratScholar seeks to inspire a new generation of young researchers.