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what are good extracurriculars for bio or animal science major?
I am currently a rising junior, and I want to have more STEM-based extracurriculars. Any tips/advice?
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Angela’s Answer
As you're looking to build your student resume for college or graduate studies, it's a great idea to seek out service and volunteer opportunities in and around your community that are in line with your future field of study of chosen career path.
For your STEM interest in bio or animal science, I'd encourage you to look for some volunteering opportunities with local animal or habitat organizations. These organizations typically have a variety of programs and organized events that allow you to earn service hours while learning new things or applying in practice things you've only learned in theory.
Depending on where you live, you might find organizations that provide you opportunities like the following:
Habitat Clean-up or Restoration
If you live near the coast, there's likely organized beach clean-up days, for example. Or if you live near any body of water or other sensitive environment, look for habitat restoration activities, like removing invasive plant species. With any habitat-based activity, not only are you doing something helpful, you'll also have the chance to further study the environment and its flora and fauna.
Animal Non-profits
Depending on your age (and allergies) local shelters are often looking for help. Also look for other animal non-profits in your area, like rescue groups (horses, goats, chickens) that give you a chance to work with and learn about a variety of animals.
Garden Programs
Are there non-profit groups working with your local school district to teach kids about where food comes from? Is there a community garden program where you could help out?
And for any of these or other activities you pursue, remember to think about other ways you can help a cause you care about. You could, for example, help with their social media presence, or put up posters for events, or write editorials for your local paper, or record some videos of the work in action and the good they do for the community, etc.
Just remember, even as a student there's a lot you have to offer in addition to your enthusiasm! But you must be brave enough to suggest it. The answer won't always be a resounding yes but it also won't always be a resounding no. So give it a go and see where it leads.
Good luck!
For your STEM interest in bio or animal science, I'd encourage you to look for some volunteering opportunities with local animal or habitat organizations. These organizations typically have a variety of programs and organized events that allow you to earn service hours while learning new things or applying in practice things you've only learned in theory.
Depending on where you live, you might find organizations that provide you opportunities like the following:
Habitat Clean-up or Restoration
If you live near the coast, there's likely organized beach clean-up days, for example. Or if you live near any body of water or other sensitive environment, look for habitat restoration activities, like removing invasive plant species. With any habitat-based activity, not only are you doing something helpful, you'll also have the chance to further study the environment and its flora and fauna.
Animal Non-profits
Depending on your age (and allergies) local shelters are often looking for help. Also look for other animal non-profits in your area, like rescue groups (horses, goats, chickens) that give you a chance to work with and learn about a variety of animals.
Garden Programs
Are there non-profit groups working with your local school district to teach kids about where food comes from? Is there a community garden program where you could help out?
And for any of these or other activities you pursue, remember to think about other ways you can help a cause you care about. You could, for example, help with their social media presence, or put up posters for events, or write editorials for your local paper, or record some videos of the work in action and the good they do for the community, etc.
Just remember, even as a student there's a lot you have to offer in addition to your enthusiasm! But you must be brave enough to suggest it. The answer won't always be a resounding yes but it also won't always be a resounding no. So give it a go and see where it leads.
Good luck!
Updated
Yarek’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking beyond just academics!
First and foremost, engage in activities that you enjoy. Experiment with various hobbies, and if something doesn't click, don't hesitate to explore something else!
Here are a few easy suggestions to get you started:
- How about trying your hand at gardening? You could grow food or plants for pleasure. You might even focus on specific types of plants. If space is a constraint, consider smaller plants in pots or terrariums. You could also start composting or vermicomposting. Alternatively, check if there's a community garden nearby where you can contribute.
- Consider adopting or raising a pet. It doesn't have to be a large or costly animal. Spend time understanding its behavior. Over time, you might even think about breeding! There are also many kinds of insects that you can raise or breed.
- Start identifying different plant and animal species around your home and gradually expand your area. Stay alert! You'll be amazed at the variety of species you can record. Try to learn about each one, their role in the ecosystem, and their interactions.
- If you have a microscope, use it! There's no limit to what you can observe and learn. It can also help you improve your microscopy skills and learn about stains and sample preparations.
- Don't overlook social activities. Join a club or organization that sparks your interest, like 4H, local birdwatching groups, Riverkeepers, or Park volunteers. It's an excellent way to learn more, share your passions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
These are just a few hobby suggestions for you!
First and foremost, engage in activities that you enjoy. Experiment with various hobbies, and if something doesn't click, don't hesitate to explore something else!
Here are a few easy suggestions to get you started:
- How about trying your hand at gardening? You could grow food or plants for pleasure. You might even focus on specific types of plants. If space is a constraint, consider smaller plants in pots or terrariums. You could also start composting or vermicomposting. Alternatively, check if there's a community garden nearby where you can contribute.
- Consider adopting or raising a pet. It doesn't have to be a large or costly animal. Spend time understanding its behavior. Over time, you might even think about breeding! There are also many kinds of insects that you can raise or breed.
- Start identifying different plant and animal species around your home and gradually expand your area. Stay alert! You'll be amazed at the variety of species you can record. Try to learn about each one, their role in the ecosystem, and their interactions.
- If you have a microscope, use it! There's no limit to what you can observe and learn. It can also help you improve your microscopy skills and learn about stains and sample preparations.
- Don't overlook social activities. Join a club or organization that sparks your interest, like 4H, local birdwatching groups, Riverkeepers, or Park volunteers. It's an excellent way to learn more, share your passions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
These are just a few hobby suggestions for you!