I’m looking for suggestions for a program that is rewarding, but not too competitive. My daughter is a rising junior with a strong interest in science, but isn’t clear about what direction she wants to go. She is a volunteer at a wildlife rehabilitation hospital and an intern at a non-profit community health center. Her grades are good, but she has gotten some Bs. She is an advanced math student (currently Honors Pre-Cal in grade 10), but she will probably get a B at the semester. All A’s in science courses, currently taking Biology.
We are looking for natural sciences, animal biology, or health science programs. A program that includes multiple topics would be great, as she is still exploring her interests. She doesn’t mind hard work and studying, but doesn’t like intense/competitive academic environments (or application processes!). So between her grades and personal preferences, we need a program for above average, but not stellar students.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. Preferably in western U.S. and under 4k. Thank you!
I don’t have any particular programs to suggest. I would say, though, that you should investigate programs at colleges that might fit the following criteria:
At a campus that your kid might be interested in for college
At a type of campus that you want your kid to experience (i.e. big public U. or small liberal arts college; rural/suburban/urban; perhaps, far away from home to experience impact of distance from home on comfort).
Programs at colleges in your state. There are programs at public and private colleges in my state that few people on CC have probably ever heard of. But if you go to the college’s website, you’ll find them. The costs are probably also going to be much more reasonable than some of the well-known programs that litter the resumes of the typical CC high achiever seniors.
I’d reach out to Oregon State about its Stem Academy program. Its website indicates an early February release of dates: https://stemacademy.oregonstate.edu/.
Both great suggestions. I want thank you and everyone else who have replied to this post. I appreciate all the knowledgeable helpful folks on CollegeConfidential!
This is not in the west but check out Juniata College in PA. Excellent environmental and pre-health programs. ES programs include wildlife conservation and you can graduate with a Associate Wildlife Biologist certification. On the health side they have very high acceptance rates to health graduate programs. Curriculum is flexible with “programs of emphasis” rather than “majors” and a pretty big share of students customize their “POE” so they can combine interests.
My D23 who is a solid student and wants a not-super-competitive environment is likely to go there. She’s really loved the community vibe. Small school and very rural.
If your kid is interested in marine biology, UC Davis Pre-College has a fantastic two-week summer program at their research station at Bodega Bay, on the Sonoma Coast (there are dorms and cafeteria facilities on-site, so the students are never on campus at UC Davis). It’s not especially competitive, but there are limited spaces, so you’ll want to apply early.
