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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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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Sanali,
Boosting Your Bio or Animal Science Major with Extracurricular Activities:
As a bio or animal science major, your academic journey can be significantly enriched by engaging in extracurricular activities. Not only do these activities offer a practical application of your studies, but they also make you more attractive to potential employers or postgraduate programs. Here are some suggested activities for those considering a career in biology or animal science:
Research Opportunities: Immerse yourself in biology or animal science research projects. These provide hands-on experience and deeper understanding of your field. Seek out such opportunities at your university, local research institutions, or even on online platforms offering virtual research experiences.
Internships: Gain practical experience by interning with organizations like zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, veterinary clinics, or research labs. Internships also help you establish a professional network within your field.
Volunteer Work: Give back to the community while gaining relevant experience by volunteering at animal shelters, conservation organizations, or environmental groups.
Clubs and Organizations: Enhance your networking, skill development, and leadership potential by joining STEM-related clubs or organizations on campus, such as biology clubs, wildlife conservation groups, or pre-veterinary societies.
Conferences and Workshops: Keep abreast of the latest research trends and network with professionals by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars related to biology or animal science.
Competitions: Showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers or postgraduate schools by participating in competitions like science fairs, hackathons, or case competitions centered on biology or animal science topics.
Teaching/Tutoring: Deepen your understanding of biological concepts and improve your communication skills by volunteering as a tutor for STEM subjects or participating in outreach programs promoting science education among younger students.
Independent Projects: Show your initiative and passion for your subject by undertaking independent projects. Start a blog on biology topics, conduct field studies on local wildlife, or participate in citizen science initiatives.
Remember, the key is to choose extracurricular activities that align with your interests and career goals, while also developing relevant skills and experiences in the field of biology or animal science.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
National Science Foundation (NSF): As a federal agency supporting research and education in all science fields, the NSF provides information on funding opportunities, research trends, and resources for STEM students.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): As a leading organization for veterinarians in the United States, the AVMA offers insights into the veterinary profession, educational requirements, career paths in animal science, and tips for aspiring veterinarians.
Society for Integrative & Comparative Biology (SICB): As a professional society dedicated to the study of integrative biology, SICB offers valuable conferences, publications, and resources for students interested in biology or animal science careers.
These sources were used to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided regarding extracurricular activities for bio or animal science majors.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Boosting Your Bio or Animal Science Major with Extracurricular Activities:
As a bio or animal science major, your academic journey can be significantly enriched by engaging in extracurricular activities. Not only do these activities offer a practical application of your studies, but they also make you more attractive to potential employers or postgraduate programs. Here are some suggested activities for those considering a career in biology or animal science:
Research Opportunities: Immerse yourself in biology or animal science research projects. These provide hands-on experience and deeper understanding of your field. Seek out such opportunities at your university, local research institutions, or even on online platforms offering virtual research experiences.
Internships: Gain practical experience by interning with organizations like zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, veterinary clinics, or research labs. Internships also help you establish a professional network within your field.
Volunteer Work: Give back to the community while gaining relevant experience by volunteering at animal shelters, conservation organizations, or environmental groups.
Clubs and Organizations: Enhance your networking, skill development, and leadership potential by joining STEM-related clubs or organizations on campus, such as biology clubs, wildlife conservation groups, or pre-veterinary societies.
Conferences and Workshops: Keep abreast of the latest research trends and network with professionals by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars related to biology or animal science.
Competitions: Showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers or postgraduate schools by participating in competitions like science fairs, hackathons, or case competitions centered on biology or animal science topics.
Teaching/Tutoring: Deepen your understanding of biological concepts and improve your communication skills by volunteering as a tutor for STEM subjects or participating in outreach programs promoting science education among younger students.
Independent Projects: Show your initiative and passion for your subject by undertaking independent projects. Start a blog on biology topics, conduct field studies on local wildlife, or participate in citizen science initiatives.
Remember, the key is to choose extracurricular activities that align with your interests and career goals, while also developing relevant skills and experiences in the field of biology or animal science.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
National Science Foundation (NSF): As a federal agency supporting research and education in all science fields, the NSF provides information on funding opportunities, research trends, and resources for STEM students.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): As a leading organization for veterinarians in the United States, the AVMA offers insights into the veterinary profession, educational requirements, career paths in animal science, and tips for aspiring veterinarians.
Society for Integrative & Comparative Biology (SICB): As a professional society dedicated to the study of integrative biology, SICB offers valuable conferences, publications, and resources for students interested in biology or animal science careers.
These sources were used to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided regarding extracurricular activities for bio or animal science majors.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Updated
Anika’s Answer
Hi Sanaii!
There are several great extracurricular activities you can consider as a bio or animal science major to enhance your STEM background and make your resume stand out:
Research Experience: Look for opportunities to join research projects or labs related to biology or animal science at your school or local universities. This could involve assisting professors, conducting experiments, or participating in fieldwork.
Internships: Seek internships with research institutions, zoos, veterinary clinics, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Hands-on experience in these settings can provide practical skills and insight into your field of interest.
Volunteer Work: Volunteer at animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or environmental organizations. This not only shows your commitment but also allows you to gain practical experience working with animals and in conservation efforts.
Clubs and Organizations: Join clubs or organizations related to biology, zoology, or environmental science. These can provide networking opportunities, guest speakers, workshops, and leadership roles that demonstrate your engagement and passion for your field.
Competitions: Participate in science fairs, biology or environmental science competitions, or hackathons related to STEM fields. These events showcase your skills, innovation, and ability to apply your knowledge.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences, workshops, or seminars in biology, ecology, or animal science. These events provide opportunities to learn from experts, present research, and network with professionals in your field.
Independent Projects: Undertake independent research or projects related to biology or animal science. This could involve conducting experiments, writing papers, or creating educational materials related to your interests.
Leadership Roles: Take on leadership roles within STEM-related clubs or organizations. This demonstrates your organizational skills, teamwork, and ability to take initiative.
Online Courses and Certifications: Take online courses or obtain certifications in relevant areas such as animal behavior, ecology, or biotechnology. These demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying current in your field.
There are several great extracurricular activities you can consider as a bio or animal science major to enhance your STEM background and make your resume stand out:
Research Experience: Look for opportunities to join research projects or labs related to biology or animal science at your school or local universities. This could involve assisting professors, conducting experiments, or participating in fieldwork.
Internships: Seek internships with research institutions, zoos, veterinary clinics, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Hands-on experience in these settings can provide practical skills and insight into your field of interest.
Volunteer Work: Volunteer at animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or environmental organizations. This not only shows your commitment but also allows you to gain practical experience working with animals and in conservation efforts.
Clubs and Organizations: Join clubs or organizations related to biology, zoology, or environmental science. These can provide networking opportunities, guest speakers, workshops, and leadership roles that demonstrate your engagement and passion for your field.
Competitions: Participate in science fairs, biology or environmental science competitions, or hackathons related to STEM fields. These events showcase your skills, innovation, and ability to apply your knowledge.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences, workshops, or seminars in biology, ecology, or animal science. These events provide opportunities to learn from experts, present research, and network with professionals in your field.
Independent Projects: Undertake independent research or projects related to biology or animal science. This could involve conducting experiments, writing papers, or creating educational materials related to your interests.
Leadership Roles: Take on leadership roles within STEM-related clubs or organizations. This demonstrates your organizational skills, teamwork, and ability to take initiative.
Online Courses and Certifications: Take online courses or obtain certifications in relevant areas such as animal behavior, ecology, or biotechnology. These demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying current in your field.
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!
Updated
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!