High School Research Assistant

Career Opportunities & Internships
1

<p>I would like to apply to some very competitive universities and many say it is beneficial to have research experience. Before anyone says this is not a good reason, I know I would also greatly enjoy it and would love to do it either way!</p>

<p>I do not want to discuss if this is beneficial or not but I would like to ask for some advice:</p>

<p>I was thinking of emailing some local university professors and asking them, but I know that some professors get really frustrated by this and that it is hard for undergraduate students to get a research assistant position let alone a high school student!</p>

<p>Has anyone here ever done anything like this in high school? If so, how did you get that position? What did you end up doing there?</p>

<p>Also, the other thing is that I would like to help with physics research but I don't really know what I would be doing because I don't have all of the knowledge they do obviously (or any any science field for that matter).
I was thinking to ask if maybe any of their graduate or undergrad students need an assistant.</p>

<p>Lastly, (I think I know the answer to this but) if I am unable to find a physics research assistant position do you think it would be useful to ask other professors in different fields? </p>

<p>Sorry this is kind of long I just want some help and felt like I needed to explain it all.
Thanks!!</p>

2

<p>Muon, my daughter has been a 3 year RA at our local university. My suggestions would be first to decide on a research area that interests you and then search for profs near you working in that area, then try to set up a meeting and express your interest and willingness to do whatever needs to be done in the lab.</p>

<p>Be realistic about your role, sweeping the floor or entering data although mundane still allow you a front row seat to watch the process and hopefully as your knowledge and commitment are increased and noticed opportunities will arise.</p>

<p>My D has a great professor who is a great teacher. He has increased her responsibilities as her abilities have developed. </p>

<p>I hope you are fortunate enough to have a great experience. </p>

<p>As far as the value of that experience to college admissions? I have no idea. Good luck.</p>

3

<p>@singersdad Thank you (:</p>