Helping with research over the summer

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a high school student reaching out to nearby universities for research opportunities over the summer, despite only having completed the highest level physics course offered at their school. The response suggests that it would be a good idea to contact professors and researchers, as they are often eager to accommodate motivated students, regardless of their level of education. It is also mentioned that in experimental research, there are tasks that do not require extensive physics knowledge and that even basic research tasks can provide valuable experience in a real research environment.
  • #1
Razzor7
49
0
I'm going into my senior year of high school, and I have completed the highest level physics course offered at my school. Would it be a waste of time to contact nearby universities to see if there are any opportunities for me to help with research over the summer? Do I simply not have enough physics education to be useful?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Razzor7 said:
I'm going into my senior year of high school, and I have completed the highest level physics course offered at my school. Would it be a waste of time to contact nearby universities to see if there are any opportunities for me to help with research over the summer? Do I simply not have enough physics education to be useful?

That would not be a waste of time and would in fact be a very good idea. If the highest physics course at your school is AP Physics C, then you have (theoretically) the same amount of physics knowledge as a rising sophomore in college and there are quite a few rising sophomores doing physics research over the summer. If not, its definitely still worth a shot. You would be surprised how eager college professors and researchers are to accommodate motivated students even when those students are not affiliated with their university.
 
  • #3
ehrenfest said:
That would not be a waste of time and would in fact be a very good idea. If the highest physics course at your school is AP Physics C, then you have (theoretically) the same amount of physics knowledge as a rising sophomore in college and there are quite a few rising sophomores doing physics research over the summer. If not, its definitely still worth a shot. You would be surprised how eager college professors and researchers are to accommodate motivated students even when those students are not affiliated with their university.

The highest course at my school is actually quite shat, and I think at best I know the equivalent of a first year introductory physics class. I think I'll still drop a few emails, though. Thanks for the input.
 
  • #4
In experimental research, there is a lot of work to be done that requires no physics knowledge. I'm sure most professors could use an extra hand. Along the way you will pick up enough to help make research decisions.
 
  • #5
Yeah, it can't hurt. I wish I had known before that it really doesn't require physics knowledge to perform basic research. I didn't even bother asking if I could do research in my first year of college, and then a couple of months ago I figured "Well, it can't hurt to ask," and the very first professor I asked said yes, even though the only Physics course I've taken so far is Physics 1.
 
  • #6
Can't hurt! There is always more work to be done in a lab than there are people to do it. I'm there is some professor willing to give you some work to do, especially if they don't need to pay you! Even if you are doing mostly organizational and computer tasks, you'll still be able to see what a real research environment is like. (College labs are no where close and high school labs are even worse at imitating what goes on in an active research laboratory.)
 

1. What types of research opportunities are available over the summer?

There are a variety of research opportunities available over the summer, including internships, volunteer positions, and paid research assistantships. These opportunities can be found at universities, government agencies, and private research institutions.

2. How can I find research opportunities for the summer?

One way to find research opportunities is to search online job boards and university websites. You can also reach out to professors or researchers in your field of interest to inquire about available positions.

3. Do I need any specific qualifications or experience to participate in summer research?

The qualifications and experience required for summer research opportunities may vary depending on the specific position. Some may require a certain level of education or specific skills, while others may be open to students of all levels. It is important to carefully read the requirements and qualifications for each opportunity before applying.

4. Will I receive any compensation for participating in summer research?

Many research opportunities over the summer offer some form of compensation, whether it be a stipend, hourly wage, or academic credit. However, some positions may be purely volunteer-based. It is important to clarify the compensation structure before accepting a research opportunity.

5. How will participating in summer research benefit my future career?

Participating in summer research can have many benefits for your future career. It allows you to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest and develop important skills, such as critical thinking and data analysis. It can also provide networking opportunities and enhance your resume for future job or graduate school applications.

Similar threads

Ph.D. Physics Student Seeking Summer Research in Canada
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
4
Views
927
Programs REU Opportunities for International Students in Theoretical Physics
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
1K
Other Recommended work for an undergrad (internships, research, etc.)
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
610
Other Summer Opportunities for Math/CS
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
738
Other What to do as a research intern?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
816
Admissions Comments on my physics PhD applicant profile
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
4
Views
818
Other Name omitted from Professor's research paper- What should I do?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
25
Views
2K
Admissions What REU's to apply to with a mediocre GPA?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
754
Admissions Chances with a Low/mid GPA but high PGRE and research experience
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
946

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top