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I want to major in Biology but meanwhile where should apply for volunteer work or a job that is relevant to my major?

I want to be a an epidemiologist but first I have to major in Biology. Meanwhile, i want to start doing volunteer work, apply for internships and jobs but I don't know where to start looking. #biology

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Thank you comment icon Are you in High School now, or in College? It sort of affects the internship and job options that might be available to you. Jared Chung, Admin
Thank you comment icon Hello! I am a freshman in college. Ivaldelomar
Thank you comment icon <html><head></head><body>For the future epidemiologists out there... Check out this cool visual explanation of how herd immunity works: <a href="http://op12no2.me/toys/herd/index.php?scenario=intro" rel="nofollow">http://op12no2.me/toys/herd/index.php?scenario=intro</a></body></html> Jared Chung, Admin
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Subject: Career question for you
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Julie’s Answer

From my friend at the National Cancer Institute;


We have a summer internship program where we train high school students through doctoral students for an 8 week period. We also have high school students that come and volunteer during a school year, but they are almost always local. If this person is interested in the summer program, he/she should contact Kristin Kiser in my office: kiserk@mail.nih.gov.
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Gary’s Answer

Very cool. You're doing the right thing by thinking about this early. And as a freshman, you're starting off on the right foot. Building your experience is critical.


Some quick ideas for internships or jobs:

- Local hospitals

- Find a biology lab at your school that is looking for assistants for lab work

- Look for university-affiliated health research institutions looking for a research assistant

- Find your local branch of the CDC

- Any local or state level health organization

- Military institutions looking to avoid disease


Another word of advice: sometimes the opportunities don't present themselves. You may have to find organizations you would like to intern with, and convince them to let you intern. If it comes down to it, write up 2 great paragraphs introducing yourself (google "How to write a cover letter"), then append a resume (google "how to write a resume"), and email it to a bunch of organizations you might want to work at. It won't be easy, but it will be rewarding!


Good luck


(Caveat: I'm not an epidemiologist, but I have done many internships!)
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Julie’s Answer

I agree that it may be difficult to find a position and you may need to see if an organization will find a role for you. One thing to consider is the type of work you think you will want to do. Are you interested in working on clinical trials in a hospital or a drug company? Observational epidemiology studies? Once you decide that, that might help figure out what kind of organization you would like to work with. As discussed by a commenter above, there are many options: hospitals, drug companies, universities, government agencies (National Cancer Institute is another that wasn't mentioned), and consulting firms are the ones that come to mind.


I would also suggest looking at websites like the Society of Epi Research, APHA, and the American College of Epidemiology. If you don't find opportunities, you might at least find ideas of places to look. Good luck!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Ivaldelomar,

Finding Volunteer Work or Jobs Relevant to Biology Major

To gain experience and build a foundation for your future career as an epidemiologist, there are several avenues you can explore for volunteer work, internships, or jobs that are relevant to your biology major. Here are some steps you can take:

1. University Resources:

Start by checking with your university’s career center or biology department. They often have resources, job boards, and connections with organizations looking for students interested in biology-related opportunities.
Attend career fairs and networking events organized by your university to connect with potential employers or volunteer organizations.

2. Research Institutions:

Look for research institutions, both within your university and externally, that focus on epidemiology or related fields. Many of these institutions offer internships or volunteer positions for students interested in gaining research experience.
Contact professors or researchers in the biology department who specialize in epidemiology. Express your interest in volunteering or working with them on research projects.

3. Nonprofit Organizations:

Explore nonprofit organizations that work on public health issues, infectious diseases, or epidemiological research. These organizations often welcome volunteers who want to contribute to their cause.
Check websites like Idealist.org or VolunteerMatch.org to find volunteer opportunities related to public health and epidemiology.

4. Hospitals and Health Centers:

Hospitals and health centers sometimes offer internships or volunteer programs for students interested in healthcare and public health. You can inquire about opportunities in departments that deal with infectious diseases or epidemiology.

5. Government Agencies:

Government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or local health departments may have internship programs specifically designed for students pursuing careers in epidemiology.
Visit the websites of these agencies to learn about their internship opportunities and application processes.

6. Online Platforms:

Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to search for internships or entry-level positions related to biology and epidemiology.
Join professional groups on LinkedIn related to public health, epidemiology, or biology to network with professionals in the field who may offer advice or opportunities.

By exploring these avenues and actively seeking out opportunities, you can start building a strong foundation in biology while working towards your goal of becoming an epidemiologist.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC is a leading national public health institute in the United States. Their website provides valuable information on public health issues, infectious diseases, and resources for students interested in epidemiology.

National Institutes of Health (NIH): The NIH is a key agency conducting medical research and funding biomedical studies. Their website offers insights into various research opportunities and programs relevant to biology majors.

American Society for Microbiology (ASM): ASM is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the microbial sciences. They provide resources, publications, and information on microbiology-related careers that could be beneficial for aspiring epidemiologists.

These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in providing guidance on finding volunteer work or jobs relevant to a biology major aspiring to become an epidemiologist.

GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
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