<p>Hi, all. </p>
<p>Since sometime last year, I've been planning - or at least trying to plan - what I'll be doing this summer. My mom and I decided that it would be okay if I went to Cornell for six weeks so I can take a couple of classes for credit: introductory biology and a classics course that involves the roots of words and how biomedical terminology has evolved. Recently, though, my mom told me that, since Cornell's financial aid for high school students is somewhat limited (the program's normally $10000 but they can only take up to half off), we can't afford it. </p>
<p>Well, she didn't really say that, but I'm not about to let her/myself/everyone go poor so I can have a good and productive six weeks. </p>
<p>Moving on, I'm really interested in biology - so much that I've actually been able to secure a volunteer research-assistant position (it's great because it's volunteering AND biology!) at a local university. The professor I am/will be working for is transferring to the University of Kansas, or something like that, after this school year, but I'm not exactly sure when. And I don't live anywhere near Kansas, so I think this leaves my summer pretty much open. </p>
<p>I know that I'm basically guaranteed a job at the YMCA if I want it, but I'd rather do something more productive and scholarly. I'm located in New York and wouldn't be willing to travel farther south than Pennsylvania, nor as far north as Maine (basically, the geographical location of the Ivies is really where I'd like to stay). </p>
<p>Can anyone help me? I'm really not sure what to do for the summer or what university, if any, I'd be able to afford. I've been looking at the University of Rochester's programs, because UR is somewhat close to where I live, but I don't know if they'd really be worth it. Does anyone know any good biology programs that would both help me and appeal to colleges? Or should I just take the job at the YMCA and hope that the professor doesn't move until mid-August?</p>
<p>Thanks sosososososososososososososososososososososososososo much! :)</p>