Independent Research Opportunities for High School Senior?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around independent research opportunities for high school seniors interested in physics. Participants explore potential avenues for engaging in research, particularly through university programs and other organizations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about independent research opportunities in physics, expressing a desire to engage in research beyond high school level.
  • Another participant suggests contacting professors at The Ohio State University (OSU) to explore potential mentorship or research positions, highlighting STEM initiatives and REU programs.
  • A different participant mentions NASA's various opportunities for high school students, noting that while specific physics internships may be limited, any experience could be beneficial.
  • One participant points out a program at Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton for high school juniors and seniors, indicating it could be a viable option depending on location.
  • A participant shares their intention to pursue undergraduate research at OSU and plans to attend an informational session to learn more about available opportunities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of seeking out university connections and exploring various programs, but there is no consensus on specific opportunities or pathways available for high school students in physics.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on geographical location and the availability of programs, while the effectiveness of outreach initiatives may vary. The discussion does not resolve the specifics of which opportunities are best suited for the original poster's interests and capabilities.

Who May Find This Useful

High school students interested in pursuing independent research in physics, educators looking for resources to guide students, and individuals seeking information on STEM outreach programs.

CRBK92
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I am currently a senior in high school and I am working towards a career which involves the study of physics. I am somewhat aware of independent research opportunities for high school students in other areas of science, but I do not know of any opportunities which I could explore for physics.

To give you an idea of what I may be able to take part in: This year I am doing post-secondary coursework through The Ohio State University--I am taking 3 quarters of Calculus and in the spring I will be taking an "advanced" physics class (I was unable to schedule for fall or winter term). I would say that I am "beyond" the level of high school physics. I am not brilliant per se, but I am taking strides to understand the material better.

I hope this question isn't too general, but is there any form of independent research that I could potentially be involved with? Is there something I could do through the university?

Thank You
 
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CRBK92 said:
I hope this question isn't too general, but is there any form of independent research that I could potentially be involved with? Is there something I could do through the university

Talk to your professors at OSU and see if they'd be willing to take you on as a student or if any of their colleagues would be willing to. You're looking for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) initiatives/STEM programs-those are the college outreach programs to recruit students into the fields. Also look for high school REU type programs. There are a few floating around.

Intel Science Talent Search covers just about every discipline.
 
I'm not sure what you're interested in doing but NASA has a number of opportunities for high school students: http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/9-12/programs/index.html

there are a few internship opportunities a little ways down the list. I don't think there are many specific for physics but any experience is good experience.
 
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Depending on how far away you live. Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton has a good program for high school juniors/seniors over the summer.
 
I believe I'm going to look into doing some kind of undergraduate research at OSU. I am planning to attend an informational session on campus this upcoming Monday which should help:

http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/undergrad/Research.php"

Hopefully I will be able to work something out.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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