Currently, Synapse works with a variety of organizations at Duke and in Durham to promote its mission of connecting Duke undergraduates to the Durham community. We welcome any volunteers who would like to contribute to any current partnerships or start new ones!
Peer Support Program: Synapse National
With backing from Synapse National, trained Duke student facilitators will lead bimonthly virtual meetings, which bring together individuals with brain injuries and those who care for them, allowing them to share experiences and resources while building meaningful social connections. Peer support groups provide a safe space for members to discuss day-to-day challenges and successes. Groups will occasionally host in-person activities throughout the year, building an increased sense of community with students and participants alike.
North Carolina School of Science and Math (NCSSM) Neuroscience Seminar
Synapse teaches a introductory neuroscience seminar at the local NCSSM during their second and third trimesters. The second trimester course serves as an introduction to the basics of neuroscience and neuroanatomy and is taught lecture-style, along with demonstrations and activities. The third trimester course consists of a series of discussions of current research papers in relevant topics in the neuroscience field.
Threshold Clubhouse
Threshold is a Clubhouse in Durham dedicated to helping adults with mental illness through supporting them in their work, advancing their education, and reaching their personal goals. We are currently working on a partnership to have Synapse members volunteer regularly at the clubhouse.
Synapse Dinner Series
The Synapse Dinner series connects Duke undergraduates and faculty in Biology, Neuroscience, Psychology, and other departments. Occurring 4-5 times a semester, each dinner is a chance for students to listen to the life stories of faculty they are interested in and to discuss research topics. Look out for opportunities to sign up to attend one of our dinners!
FEMMES Capstone
Every Spring, Synapse participates in the FEMMES (Females Excelling More in Math, Engineering, and Science) capstone, leading elementary and middle school students in exciting brain and perception activities to help them better appreciate the wonders of the mind. More information about FEMMES at http://sites.duke.edu/femmes/.
Brain Bee
The Brain Bee is an international neuroscience competition for high school students. Duke University holds a regional competition every year, and high school students from all across the state come to show off what they have learned. Synapse regularly volunteers to help make this event possible. More information at http://www.dental.umaryland.edu/brainbee/.
Brain Awareness Week
Every year, the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences holds its annual Brain Awareness Week, a week-long event packed with neuroscience events, volunteer opportunities, and movie screenings. Synapse members usually participate at outreach and volunteering events during this time.
First-Year Mentorship Program
Starting this academic year, Synapse will be pairing upperclass mentors with first-year students with an interest in neuroscience! Mentors and mentees can meet over meals to discuss classes, major advice, and navigating extracurriculars. Please email us at synapse.duke@gmail.com if you are interested in joining!
