<p>I was wondering if not doing a formal research internship in a lab over the summer would disadvantage me for obtaining science internships in college? I've taken basically all the AP math and science courses and am familiar with lab practice and techniques through summer programs and school labs, but I haven't ever really done a formal research paper as an individual. Should I still try and apply for internships for this summer or would it be trivial for me to do so? Am I still viable for getting internships while I'm at Princeton without experience in high school?</p>
<p>I really hope I have you as a lab partner next year :)</p>
<p>You really do care about every little detail don’t you? :p</p>
<p>Womp :[</p>
<p>lolll</p>
<p>I think you should relax before the 4 hardest years of your life :]</p>
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<p>haha.</p>
<p>On a more serious note, I’m sure lots of students have no formal research experience prior to their time at Princeton. The opportunity there is vast and easily accessible. Either way, I wouldn’t worry about lack of experience being in the way of opportunity.</p>
<p>It won’t make a difference. From what I’ve seen, professors and grad students are willing to welcome interested students (usually, if not always, those interested in majoring in that department) onto their research teams. Research and academic interests will matter more in getting a position than prior research experience.</p>
<p>You have nothing to worry about. My son had no research experience prior to attending Princeton yet has been presented with incredible research opportunities there.</p>
<p>Princeton’s only hard for those who want it to be hard. It’s easy if you do manage time wisely. I love being an econ major.</p>
<p>i didn’t even know high school students could do research, but after taking a freshmen seminar with my neuroscience professor, i asked her if i could do research in her lab and now i’ve been researching in her lab for over a year now. so you’ll be more than fine.</p>
<p>Very very few high school student do formal lab research before they enter college. Absolutely don’t worry about it.</p>
<p>“I haven’t ever really done a formal research paper as an individual.”</p>
<p>It took me THREE YEARS to get a paper through peer review. And I almost have a PhD. Dude, you’re going to burn out spectacularly if you keep going like this. And I hate when that happens because then my alma mater isn’t getting your sweet sweet tuition money.</p>