Summer presents an invaluable opportunity for high school students to delve into the world of research. Engaging in research projects not only bolsters college applications but also nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving and independent learning skills. Here’s how your teen can make the most of these opportunities:
- University Programs: Many universities offer summer research programs for high school students. These programs often pair students with faculty mentors to work on actual research projects, providing a real taste of academic research.
- Local Laboratories and Institutions: Reach out to local colleges, research labs or scientific institutions. Even if formal programs aren’t available, they might offer internships or shadowing opportunities.
- Government and Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations like NASA, the National Institutes of Health and various non-profit organizations offer summer research programs in fields ranging from space science to biomedical research.
- Online Research Projects: With the rise of digital platforms, many research opportunities are available online. These can include data analysis, literature review or collaborating on remote projects.
- Independent Projects: Encourage your teen to start an independent research project. This could be anything from a science fair project to a community-based study. The key is to choose a topic they are passionate about and develop a structured approach to investigate it.
Remember, the goal is to engage in meaningful research that aligns with your child’s interests and academic goals. Such experiences not only enhance college applications but also contribute significantly to personal and intellectual growth.
As author of Untangling the Ivy League, Marc literally wrote the book on gaining admission to highly selective colleges. He earned a BA from Cornell University – where he met AcceptU’s co-founder – and an MBA from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At UNC, Marc chaired the admissions advisory board; he has also conducted alumni interviews for Cornell for more than fifteen years.
