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What can high school students do to further reach career goals in STEM ?
I am a 17-year-old rising senior in high school and wish to pursue biology in the future. I did a Student-mentor DNA barcoding research in my sophomore year. I hope to get more experience in science but amn't sure where to be looking or what I should be doing.
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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 Yeonjin,
Charting Your Path in High School STEM: As a high schooler with aspirations to delve into the world of biology, there are numerous steps you can undertake to advance your STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) ambitions. Here are some practical suggestions to bolster your experience and knowledge in biology:
1. Dive into Science Competitions: Participate in science contests such as the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), Science Olympiad, or local science fairs. These platforms offer valuable hands-on experience and a chance to demonstrate your research prowess.
2. Pursue Research Opportunities: Scout for internships or volunteer roles at local universities, research establishments, or biotech firms. These encounters will enable you to work with biology professionals and acquire practical skills.
3. Get Involved in STEM Clubs and Organizations: Join STEM clubs like the Science National Honor Society, Biology Club, or similar organizations. This will help you network with peers and mentors who share your enthusiasm for science.
4. Enroll in Advanced Science Courses: Sign up for advanced placement (AP) or honors classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. This will help you establish a robust knowledge base beneficial for your future biology studies.
5. Attend Science Camps or Workshops: Think about attending summer science camps or workshops centered on biology or other STEM subjects. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences and exposure to state-of-the-art research.
6. Connect with Professionals: Network with professionals in the biology field through informational interviews, job shadowing opportunities, or networking events. These connections can offer valuable insights into potential career trajectories and opportunities.
7. Leverage Online Resources: Make use of online resources such as virtual labs, webinars, MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), and educational websites to broaden your biology knowledge and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field.
By proactively participating in these activities and seeking opportunities to deepen your biology understanding, you'll be well-positioned to pursue a fruitful STEM career.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
National Science Foundation (NSF): The NSF is a federal agency committed to supporting research and education across all science and engineering fields. Their website offers valuable information on STEM education initiatives, student funding opportunities, and resources for budding scientists.
STEM Education Coalition: This non-profit organization is dedicated to advocating for STEM education policies and programs nationwide. Their website provides insights into current STEM education trends, advocacy efforts, and resources for students keen on STEM careers.
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS): The AAAS is a global organization committed to promoting science, engineering, and innovation. Their website includes educational resources, career development tools, and scientific research information beneficial to high schoolers interested in STEM careers like biology.
These sources were referred to ensure the information provided about opportunities for high school students aiming to reach their STEM career goals, especially in biology, is accurate and dependable.
Blessings,
JC.
Charting Your Path in High School STEM: As a high schooler with aspirations to delve into the world of biology, there are numerous steps you can undertake to advance your STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) ambitions. Here are some practical suggestions to bolster your experience and knowledge in biology:
1. Dive into Science Competitions: Participate in science contests such as the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), Science Olympiad, or local science fairs. These platforms offer valuable hands-on experience and a chance to demonstrate your research prowess.
2. Pursue Research Opportunities: Scout for internships or volunteer roles at local universities, research establishments, or biotech firms. These encounters will enable you to work with biology professionals and acquire practical skills.
3. Get Involved in STEM Clubs and Organizations: Join STEM clubs like the Science National Honor Society, Biology Club, or similar organizations. This will help you network with peers and mentors who share your enthusiasm for science.
4. Enroll in Advanced Science Courses: Sign up for advanced placement (AP) or honors classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. This will help you establish a robust knowledge base beneficial for your future biology studies.
5. Attend Science Camps or Workshops: Think about attending summer science camps or workshops centered on biology or other STEM subjects. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences and exposure to state-of-the-art research.
6. Connect with Professionals: Network with professionals in the biology field through informational interviews, job shadowing opportunities, or networking events. These connections can offer valuable insights into potential career trajectories and opportunities.
7. Leverage Online Resources: Make use of online resources such as virtual labs, webinars, MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), and educational websites to broaden your biology knowledge and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field.
By proactively participating in these activities and seeking opportunities to deepen your biology understanding, you'll be well-positioned to pursue a fruitful STEM career.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
National Science Foundation (NSF): The NSF is a federal agency committed to supporting research and education across all science and engineering fields. Their website offers valuable information on STEM education initiatives, student funding opportunities, and resources for budding scientists.
STEM Education Coalition: This non-profit organization is dedicated to advocating for STEM education policies and programs nationwide. Their website provides insights into current STEM education trends, advocacy efforts, and resources for students keen on STEM careers.
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS): The AAAS is a global organization committed to promoting science, engineering, and innovation. Their website includes educational resources, career development tools, and scientific research information beneficial to high schoolers interested in STEM careers like biology.
These sources were referred to ensure the information provided about opportunities for high school students aiming to reach their STEM career goals, especially in biology, is accurate and dependable.
Blessings,
JC.
Updated
Sahida’s Answer
To further reach your career goals in STEM, especially in biology, here are some steps and opportunities you can pursue:
Academics and Coursework
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics to strengthen your foundation and potentially earn college credits.
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer courses in various biological sciences.
Extracurricular Activities
Science Clubs: Join or start a biology or science club at your school to engage in group projects, discussions, and experiments.
Competitions: Participate in science fairs, Olympiads, and competitions like the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) or the USA Biology Olympiad.
Research Opportunities
Summer Programs: Apply for summer research programs like the Research Science Institute (RSI) or local university programs.
Internships: Look for internships at local universities, research labs, or biotech companies. Many institutions offer programs specifically for high school students.
Networking and Mentorship
Mentorship Programs: Seek out mentorship opportunities through organizations like the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) or the Society for Science.
Networking Events: Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to biology to meet professionals in the field.
Volunteering and Community Involvement
Science Outreach: Volunteer at science museums, nature centers, or participate in community science outreach programs.
Environmental Organizations: Get involved with organizations focused on environmental conservation, wildlife protection, or public health.
Independent Projects
DIY Experiments: Conduct your own experiments at home or in a local lab to explore your interests further. Document and present your findings.
Science Blogging: Start a blog or YouTube channel to share your passion for biology and your experiences with others.
College Preparation
College Visits: Visit colleges with strong biology programs to get a feel for their facilities and curriculum.
Application Prep: Prepare for standardized tests (SAT/ACT) and work on building a strong college application with your research and extracurricular experiences.
Online Communities and Resources
Forums and Groups: Join online communities like Reddit’s r/biology or Stack Exchange’s Biology section to ask questions and learn from others.
Educational Websites: Follow websites like Khan Academy, CrashCourse, and Nature Education for additional learning resources.
By actively engaging in these activities, you’ll not only build your knowledge and skills in biology but also create a strong foundation for your future studies and career in STEM.
Academics and Coursework
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: Take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics to strengthen your foundation and potentially earn college credits.
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer courses in various biological sciences.
Extracurricular Activities
Science Clubs: Join or start a biology or science club at your school to engage in group projects, discussions, and experiments.
Competitions: Participate in science fairs, Olympiads, and competitions like the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) or the USA Biology Olympiad.
Research Opportunities
Summer Programs: Apply for summer research programs like the Research Science Institute (RSI) or local university programs.
Internships: Look for internships at local universities, research labs, or biotech companies. Many institutions offer programs specifically for high school students.
Networking and Mentorship
Mentorship Programs: Seek out mentorship opportunities through organizations like the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) or the Society for Science.
Networking Events: Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to biology to meet professionals in the field.
Volunteering and Community Involvement
Science Outreach: Volunteer at science museums, nature centers, or participate in community science outreach programs.
Environmental Organizations: Get involved with organizations focused on environmental conservation, wildlife protection, or public health.
Independent Projects
DIY Experiments: Conduct your own experiments at home or in a local lab to explore your interests further. Document and present your findings.
Science Blogging: Start a blog or YouTube channel to share your passion for biology and your experiences with others.
College Preparation
College Visits: Visit colleges with strong biology programs to get a feel for their facilities and curriculum.
Application Prep: Prepare for standardized tests (SAT/ACT) and work on building a strong college application with your research and extracurricular experiences.
Online Communities and Resources
Forums and Groups: Join online communities like Reddit’s r/biology or Stack Exchange’s Biology section to ask questions and learn from others.
Educational Websites: Follow websites like Khan Academy, CrashCourse, and Nature Education for additional learning resources.
By actively engaging in these activities, you’ll not only build your knowledge and skills in biology but also create a strong foundation for your future studies and career in STEM.
Updated
Reema’s Answer
For high school students with a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), there are numerous exciting ways to advance your career aspirations:
Embrace Rigorous Courses: Dive into the challenging math, science, and computer science courses available at your school to forge a robust academic base.
Engage in STEM Competitions: Showcase your abilities and enthusiasm for STEM by competing in science fairs, robotics contests like FIRST Robotics, math Olympiads, and coding competitions.
Get Involved in STEM Clubs and Organizations: Join groups such as the Science Club, Math Club, Computer Science Club, and Engineering Club to participate in stimulating hands-on projects and discussions on STEM subjects.
Pursue Internships and Research Opportunities: Seek out internships, summer programs, or research opportunities at local universities, research institutions, or STEM-centric companies to gain valuable real-world experience and mentorship.
Explore Online Courses and Certifications: Utilize online platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy to pursue courses and earn certifications in STEM subjects beyond your school curriculum.
Attend STEM Events and Conferences: Participate in workshops, seminars, and STEM conferences to stay updated on emerging trends, network with professionals, and gain insights into a variety of STEM careers.
Volunteer and Engage in Outreach Programs: Contribute to STEM-related outreach programs or workshops in your community to inspire younger students and display your leadership and communication skills.
Create a Portfolio or Project Showcase: Work on personal projects or portfolios that exhibit your skills, such as coding projects, science experiments, or engineering designs. These can be powerful additions to college applications or job interviews.
Find a Mentor: Reach out to teachers, professors, or professionals in your chosen STEM field who can offer guidance, advice, and possibly opportunities for growth and learning.
By taking these proactive steps, high school students can not only deepen their understanding and skills in STEM but also boost their competitiveness for future educational and career opportunities in these fields.
Embrace Rigorous Courses: Dive into the challenging math, science, and computer science courses available at your school to forge a robust academic base.
Engage in STEM Competitions: Showcase your abilities and enthusiasm for STEM by competing in science fairs, robotics contests like FIRST Robotics, math Olympiads, and coding competitions.
Get Involved in STEM Clubs and Organizations: Join groups such as the Science Club, Math Club, Computer Science Club, and Engineering Club to participate in stimulating hands-on projects and discussions on STEM subjects.
Pursue Internships and Research Opportunities: Seek out internships, summer programs, or research opportunities at local universities, research institutions, or STEM-centric companies to gain valuable real-world experience and mentorship.
Explore Online Courses and Certifications: Utilize online platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy to pursue courses and earn certifications in STEM subjects beyond your school curriculum.
Attend STEM Events and Conferences: Participate in workshops, seminars, and STEM conferences to stay updated on emerging trends, network with professionals, and gain insights into a variety of STEM careers.
Volunteer and Engage in Outreach Programs: Contribute to STEM-related outreach programs or workshops in your community to inspire younger students and display your leadership and communication skills.
Create a Portfolio or Project Showcase: Work on personal projects or portfolios that exhibit your skills, such as coding projects, science experiments, or engineering designs. These can be powerful additions to college applications or job interviews.
Find a Mentor: Reach out to teachers, professors, or professionals in your chosen STEM field who can offer guidance, advice, and possibly opportunities for growth and learning.
By taking these proactive steps, high school students can not only deepen their understanding and skills in STEM but also boost their competitiveness for future educational and career opportunities in these fields.
Updated
sarah’s Answer
To further your career goals in STEM, particularly in biology, as a high school student, consider these steps:
Seek Research Opportunities: Look for internships or research programs, possibly through platforms like SwiftStart.com, to gain hands-on experience.
Join STEM Clubs and Competitions: Participate in clubs and competitions to enhance your skills and meet like-minded peers.
Take Advanced Courses: Enroll in advanced biology classes or dual-enrollment programs to deepen your knowledge.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Stay updated on biology trends and research by attending relevant events.
Network with Professionals: Build connections with mentors and professionals in the field for guidance and future opportunities.
Seek Research Opportunities: Look for internships or research programs, possibly through platforms like SwiftStart.com, to gain hands-on experience.
Join STEM Clubs and Competitions: Participate in clubs and competitions to enhance your skills and meet like-minded peers.
Take Advanced Courses: Enroll in advanced biology classes or dual-enrollment programs to deepen your knowledge.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: Stay updated on biology trends and research by attending relevant events.
Network with Professionals: Build connections with mentors and professionals in the field for guidance and future opportunities.
Updated
William’s Answer
You may choose to specialize in Biology options, such as: Biology (General), Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Industrial Biology, Animal Biology, Plant Biology, Ecology, Genetics, Anatomy, Physiology, Environmental Biology, Biophysics, Astrobiology etcetera.
Career options for a degree in biology are numerous as in the link Below.
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/biology
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
Academic researcher
Biotechnologist
Higher education lecturer
Marine biologist
Microbiologist
Nanotechnologist
Nature conservation officer
Palaeontologist
Pharmacologist
Research scientist (life sciences)
Scientific laboratory technician
Secondary school teacher
Soil scientist
Water quality scientist
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
Anatomical pathology technologist
Clinical scientist, genomics
Dental therapist
Dentist
Fisheries officer
Forensic scientist
Genetic counsellor
Neuroscientist
Operating department practitioner
Physician associate
Science writer
Sustainability consultant
Veterinary nurse
Zoologist
Other sources reveals:
Health educator
Park ranger
Biological technician or research assistant
Agricultural or food science technician
High school science teacher
Content writer
Physician liaison
Environmental scientist or specialist
Forensic scientist
Quality control technician
Pharmaceutical sales technician
Career options for a degree in biology are numerous as in the link Below.
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/biology
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
Academic researcher
Biotechnologist
Higher education lecturer
Marine biologist
Microbiologist
Nanotechnologist
Nature conservation officer
Palaeontologist
Pharmacologist
Research scientist (life sciences)
Scientific laboratory technician
Secondary school teacher
Soil scientist
Water quality scientist
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
Anatomical pathology technologist
Clinical scientist, genomics
Dental therapist
Dentist
Fisheries officer
Forensic scientist
Genetic counsellor
Neuroscientist
Operating department practitioner
Physician associate
Science writer
Sustainability consultant
Veterinary nurse
Zoologist
Other sources reveals:
Health educator
Park ranger
Biological technician or research assistant
Agricultural or food science technician
High school science teacher
Content writer
Physician liaison
Environmental scientist or specialist
Forensic scientist
Quality control technician
Pharmaceutical sales technician