<p>Well, I had wanted to do research during high school (physics) but was unable to do so (I contacted several organizations, but they didn't need me). On my high school profile (which is mailed with my counsler rec) they mention about great the surroundings businesses and corporations are in giving students internships and research positions. So, it's not that I didn't want to do research or was incapable, but the oppurtunity never fell my way. So, how will this be looked upon by the top 20 or so universities?</p>
<p>You don’t need to do research to get into a good college. The vast majority of students even at the ivies do not have high school research experience. If you can’t find any good research opportunities, just find something else worthwhile to do, and it will be fine. </p>
<p>Regardless, you might want to try contacting some professors at a local university directly, as you’re more likely to find the sort of opportunities you’re looking for there rather than from a corporation. Contacting an organization formally is the wrong way to go about this – search for a few professors who are doing work in areas that you find interesting and send them each a polite, careful email explaining who you are and why you’re interested in their research.</p>
<p>Alright, cool, thanks. What I meant by organization was a university some professors and TAs in the physics department, but it didn’t work out, lol. Well, I guess that eases my worries.</p>