<p>For the last year, I have been working on research with a mentor. We will likely be presenting our work at a scientific convention. Is this as good as getting work published? Will it look good on an app? Could it be a hook at places like HYPS?</p>
<p>BUMP Up Up</p>
<p>It's great. Even if you don't publish your research, when you apply to HYPS, you'll have something to talk about - what you learnt, what you gained out of the whole experience, etc. </p>
<p>Presenting your research is a plus as you are getting yourself known to the scientific community.</p>
<p>How does this compare to something like the Siemens Westinghouse Competition at the regional level?</p>
<p>Well, you can't really do anything about that. So forget about it. Even without Siemens/Intel, if you demonstrate that you have achieved something significant from your research, you'll be in great shape. </p>
<p>You should make your essay do all the talking. Just make sure it reflects your passion for whatever you have done. Also, you can talk about it in the interview if there's one.</p>
<p>eatclamchowder, I'm interested to know how you were matched up with your mentor. I'm interested in research, too. What advice would you give me? I'm a high school freshmen so I know some people might be reluctant to include someone that young in their research. However, I'm really serious about this.</p>
<p>oh, trust me - it helps a LOT
i had my work published and i was also able to go to MRS meeting in boston this fall (materials research society), and it was great. i didn't do it to get into college though - if you like research, you'll definitely enjoy the experience, and i did.
without a doubt, competitions help with college... but honestly, as i said before, it's the experience that really counts. i got to go to the intel international science and engineering fair in portland last spring, and it turned out to be the best week of my life. winning siemens (got that) or intel on the semifinalist level will never compare with isef.</p>
<p>Quibic can you help me?</p>
<p>Private_Joker, i was in your position too when i was a freshman. i got started at the end of my sophomore year at the Garcia MRSEC lab (<a href="http://polymer.matscieng.sunysb.edu%5B/url%5D">http://polymer.matscieng.sunysb.edu</a>) at SUNY Stony Brook. i went back this summer, too. it's an incredible experience, and not only will you learn SO much about the scientific community, but you will make best friends that will last a lifetime.</p>
<p>i'd highly recommend my lab - we have one of THE most successful programs for high school students in the nation. in fact, THREE out of six teams at siemens westinghouse nationals were from Garcia (including my friends who got second!!!). i guess it may seem intimidating at first, but it really isn't so bad. those who are successful had to start from scratch too.</p>
<p>matt mcgann (MIT) has more here:
<a href="http://blogs.mit.edu/madmatt/posts/2744.aspx%5B/url%5D">http://blogs.mit.edu/madmatt/posts/2744.aspx</a></p>
<p>Hey eatclamchowder, just wondering, what is your research emphasis?</p>
<p>qubic - i worked at garcia center too - maybe we know each other?</p>
<p>hi jen!! it's sylvia :)</p>
<p>Qubic, does your program accept out-of-state applicants? I live in Massachusetts. </p>
<p>Thank-you for your response. It is very helpful. There is a girl who recommended me to join a lab, too. She says to research my local college's websites and see if any of the faculty are doing research. If they are e-mail them.</p>
<p>yes, it does - there's been people from texas, connecticut, and new jersey.
of course, working at a local college is much easier because you always have to keep going back, even if you think you are done (especially for competitions).</p>
<p>Where do the out-of-state kids stay? I have close family in New York, most specificly Nassau County in Long Island, and I could stay with them if I am accepted. However, I could be a hindrance to them. They would have to bring me to and from SUNY for 7 or so weeks straight. That distance might be pretty far from where they live. </p>
<p>Also, Qubic, how competitive is it to gain admission to the program? Should you be at a certain age or grade to apply? Is it a problem if you have not taken the PSAT? Should you have a certain gpa? And do they require previous research experience?</p>
<p>a lot of kids choose to dorm for the 7 weeks (i dormed - the dorms aren't too great but the people are). or, you can take the train right onto campus - many people do that too.</p>
<p>most kids who go are juniors and seniors. they're pretty passionate about science and their gpa is good, but i know some who did not have incredible stats. and no, you don't have to have previous experience - i didn't.</p>
<p>because the program has gotten so successful recently, it has also gotten very competitive. i suggest that you, as you are only a freshman, start working at a local college. if you want, apply after your sophomore year.</p>
<p>I will probably apply around that time. Looking at their websight and seeing the type of research these high school students do, I am a fan of the program. Garcia embodies everything I look for in a summer science program. I would gain great hands-on experience. Thankx, for your response. It's really appreciated.</p>
<p>no problem, glad i could help
i'll be back there this summer, and if i go back again the summer after that, who knows - maybe i'll see you there ;)</p>
<p>hi sylvia! I was very impressed with garcia's siemens results this year! 2, 4, and 5 in the team competition is pretty impressive! good luck with duke! I hope you get to hang out with lenny all the time!!! :)</p>
<p>so ther is boarding at the garcia program? and when is the app due?</p>