What to Expect in Summer Program Research?
by Diane N.
Are you a high school student considering a summer research program? Diving into the world of scientific research can be both exciting and intimidating.
Here’s what you can expect from your first research experience:
The Research Process
- Literature Review: You’ll start by reading scientific papers related to your project. This helps you understand the current state of research in your field.
- Hypothesis Formation: Based on your reading, you’ll work with your mentor to develop a research question and hypothesis.
- Experimental Design: You’ll learn to design experiments to test your hypothesis. This involves planning procedures, identifying necessary materials, and considering potential variables.
- Data Collection: Depending on your field, you might work in a lab, conduct surveys, or use computer simulations to gather data.
- Data Analysis: You’ll learn to use various tools and techniques to analyze your results, often including statistical methods.
- Drawing Conclusions: Based on your analysis, you’ll interpret your results and discuss how they relate to your initial hypothesis.
Lab Environment
Expect to work in a team environment. You’ll likely be paired with a mentor (often a graduate student or postdoc) who will guide you through the research process. Safety is paramount in labs, so you’ll receive training on proper procedures and equipment use.
End of Program
Most summer programs culminate in a presentation of your work. This could be in the form of a poster session, oral presentation, or written report. It’s a great opportunity to practice your scientific communication skills!
Beyond the Summer
Your summer research experience as a highschooler can open doors for future opportunities:
- You might be able to continue your project remotely during the school year.
- Your work could potentially contribute to a scientific publication.
- The skills and knowledge you gain will be valuable for college applications and future research opportunities.
Remember, research is an iterative process. Don’t be discouraged if things don’t work out as planned – that’s part of the scientific journey! Embrace the learning experience and enjoy your foray into the world of research.
