<p>I am currently a ninth grader in New Jersey, and I'm not sure what I should do this summer. I'm interested in doing some type of research or volunteer work. However, if I can't get this opportunity, I would also settle for a local job. For research, I am interested in a public health research project, but i'm not sure if any opportunities are worth the money (for transportation). Also, im not sure whether colleges would prefer research or jobs during the summer. What should I focus on? Research opportunities or jobs?<br>
Another thing I'm concerned about is that I don't want to do research in a lab, per say. Does that mean that I would be better off pursuing a job?</p>