Hey guys,
The question is pretty self-explanatory. Also, I am an incoming freshman who is doing a combined major in computer science and biology. Is it too late to do either biology research or computer science research?
Quite the opposite - way too early probably. You haven’t even met your professors yet! You also probably lack some of the skills you need and/or background information. Get to campus and go from there.
Incoming freshman rarely have the skills to contribute much in the lab yet. Get to college, focusing good grades first semester, then approach profs about research.
Personally, October was the best time for me as a Biochemistry major. I also asked around before school started, and know some people who were glad that they did, but I think the other posters are right–get situated with college first.
If you have a lot of strong science background from AP/IB/etc when you start, it’s possible to get involved in research your first year, but before you even arrive is definitely too early. Once you’re settled in your classes, start looking for research that interests you. Go to your professors’ office hours and start building relationships with them that will help you get involved in research.
What if I am not taking any biology classes first semester? Also, are professors usually accepting of freshman with little experience?
It depends on the professor and the work they’re doing.
Why are you not taking any bio classes your first semester? It means you don’t have the built-in contact, but there are other ways. Your intro to college class for your major might introduce you to professors’ research, or you could even cold-contact them after checking out what research interests your from looking at their websites and maybe some of their papers.