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Learn about ARI's research projects
Beyond the Classroom: Conduct Field Research. Never Voluntourism.
Each year, over 300 high school students participate in ARI's 6- to 10-day field research programs, offered in the fall, spring, and summer, where they investigate real-world global challenges through on-the-ground interviews, research and community-based projects. Students don’t enter communities to “help” or "save" but to learn, listen, and contribute responsibly through research that aligns with local needs.
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Jason (Hong)
Co-Founder, ARI Scholars
Jason (Hong) was named a personal “Hero” by renowned British primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall for his anti-ivory campaign. His work began in Kenya, where he led an investigative journalism initiative uncovering illegal ivory trade routes. Dr. Goodall, best known for her groundbreaking 60-year study of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania, recognized Jason’s dedication to wildlife conservation as aligned with her own lifelong mission.
Co-Founder, ARI Scholars
Jason (Hong) was named a personal “Hero” by renowned British primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall for his anti-ivory campaign. His work began in Kenya, where he led an investigative journalism initiative uncovering illegal ivory trade routes. Dr. Goodall, best known for her groundbreaking 60-year study of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania, recognized Jason’s dedication to wildlife conservation as aligned with her own lifelong mission.
Our Mission
At ARI, our mission is to guide high school students in conducting impactful research that addresses critical global issues. Our focus is on experiential learning, empowering students to collaborate with experts, NGOs who are our partners, engage with communities, and develop insights that inspire action.
60 field research trips a year
Each year, we organize over 60 field research trips across Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Latin America and Africa, each centered on social issues. Topics include climate resilience, access to clean water, education equity, urban poverty, gender equality, public health, and refugee displacement. On some trips, students conduct interviews with individuals and families, gaining firsthand insight into the human stories behind social issues they read about. These experiences challenge students to think critically, act empathetically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
Collaborative NGOs & Partnerships
Over the past 10 years, ARI has developed partnerships with NGOs and nonprofit organizations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. During each field research program, students don’t just observe, they engage directly with our NGO partners through interviews, site visits, and collaborative workshops. These conversations allow students to ask questions, gain local perspectives, and better understand the complexities behind the issues they’re studying. It’s not just research. We hope that they embark on a transformative journey in global awareness and understanding.
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What students have to say...
Students interview individuals, NGOs, refugees, and community leaders to understand real-world challenges firsthand.
They work in teams to interview, collect data, and draw connections between local issues and global trends. These are their experiences...
They work in teams to interview, collect data, and draw connections between local issues and global trends. These are their experiences...
I initially planned to study CSR in Chinese factories in Ethiopia, but after engaging with the local Chinese community, I realized that cultural integration was the deeper issue. If Chinese people integrate better, local acceptance of their businesses may improve as well.
Nancy
ARI Scholar | Princeton University
Field Study on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Ethiopia
ARI Scholar | Princeton University
Field Study on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Ethiopia
I was initially drawn to this research project on gender equality. After getting involved, I truly gained a lot from the experience—I became the head of the media team, leading others in conducting interviews, organizing content, and writing press releases.
Yvonne
ARI Scholar | Emory University
Gender Equality Fieldwork in Kenya
ARI Scholar | Emory University
Gender Equality Fieldwork in Kenya
I’m eager to spend ten days stepping out of my comfort zone and exploring a completely different part of the world — immersing myself in unfamiliar cultures, connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, and embracing challenges that will broaden my perspective and help me grow both personally and intellectually.
Harrison
ARI Scholar |Vanderbilt University
Research on Waste Management and Recycling, Kenya
ARI Scholar |Vanderbilt University
Research on Waste Management and Recycling, Kenya
The reason I create this kind of educational content is to do my best to break the stereotypes and misunderstandings people have about these “anime dream-chasers.” Even though the views aren’t particularly high, I believe that if just a few more people watch it, it might help improve public understanding and empathy toward their experiences.
David
ARI Scholar | Emory University
Discovering Sociology Through ACG, Japan
ARI Scholar | Emory University
Discovering Sociology Through ACG, Japan
I conducted interviews with local Chinese residents and Brazilian scholars and helped organize the recordings. Through this, I gained insight into the challenges Chinese communities face integrating into society in Brazil and beyond. It motivated me and solidified my decision to pursue a future in international relations or political science.
Blair
ARI Scholar | University of Pennsylvania
How Local Wildlife Laws Affect Involvement in the Wildlife Trade, Kenya
ARI Scholar | University of Pennsylvania
How Local Wildlife Laws Affect Involvement in the Wildlife Trade, Kenya
During the program, I was mainly responsible for documenting interviews and turning them into English articles. From my teammates and mentors at Kenys I gained valuable skills in investigative journalism and writing, as well as a deep appreciation for rigorous and persistent research
Chun
ARI Scholar | University of California, Berkeley
Interviewing buyers of wildlife products, Kenya
ARI Scholar | University of California, Berkeley
Interviewing buyers of wildlife products, Kenya
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Former Ivy League Admissions Officer shares a few words
Admissions Officer
Sharing more soon...
Admission officers have shared that evidence of in-depth academic interest combined can be useful in understanding a student's area of interest.
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Our Valued Partners
We are proud to collaborate with leading organizations to advance research and innovation.
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Connect with ARI
Irvine | Shanghai | Bangkok
teams@arischolars.com
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Your Gateway to ARI Research
Application Submission Guidelines
If you're interested in applying to ARI as a scholar, please submit a request to applications@arischolars.com.
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