HOW RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES CAN BOOST YOUR COLLEGE PREP
Get Ahead This Summer: How Research Opportunities Can Boost Your College Prep
By Melissa Trager, Resume All Day
If you’re a high school freshman or sophomore, the idea of college might feel far off, but trust me, the steps you take now can make a big difference when it comes time to apply. One way you can start preparing for college is by exploring research opportunities. Research isn’t just for students aiming for a career in science or engineering – it’s valuable for any student, whether you’re interested in government, business, or education.
For instance, if you’re considering a future in government or public policy, there are plenty of ways to dive into research that will help you develop essential skills like critical thinking, writing, and communication. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be something huge or intimidating. Small, local opportunities can help build your experience and set you up for success.
Continuing with this example for a student interested in government, a great way to get started would be by contacting your local town’s city council or the mayor’s office to volunteer. You could offer to help with research for local initiatives or community projects. For example, maybe you could assist in gathering data for an upcoming town hall or research policies for a new local law. This is an excellent way to get real-world experience in government, plus it’s a chance to contribute to your community while gaining valuable skills that will help you stand out on your college applications.
Students can find other research opportunities through virtual internships or research programs offered by universities and government organizations. Pro tip: research professors at colleges you are interested in attending and see what fields they are investigating. Send them a blind email and ask how you can help. Additionally, use your network. Your parents may have a friend who is a small business owner or works for an interesting company; see if there are opportunities to help the people you already know. Engagements like this provide a great experience and a chance to learn more about specific areas of interest for your future major and career.
Ultimately, getting involved in research now is a smart way to prepare for college. It gives you hands-on experience in your field of interest, helps build a strong skillset, and will be helpful when writing your college essays and filling out the common application. So, don’t wait for junior year – get started this summer!
