Herein, we describe an effective and tested model of a week-long summer science intensive program for high school students that aimed to elaborate on concepts covered in a high school chemistry or biology course, and to provide high school students an opportunity to learn about studying and pursuing careers in the sciences. The program was developed to combine instructional sessions, hands-on activities, and laboratory tours in order to review and build upon what students learn in high school. Student assessment and feedback confirms the effectiveness of this student-run program to teach and inspire high school students to pursue the sciences in their academic career.