1. Get Hands-On Experience Through Research Opportunities

One of the best ways to explore biology is to engage in scientific research. Many universities, labs, and organizations offer summer research programs for high school students. These programs provide valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific problem-solving.

How to Find Research Opportunities:

• Look for formal programs like the Garcia Summer Scholars Program or RISE at Boston University.
• Reach out to local colleges or research institutions and inquire about opportunities to assist graduate students or professors. A polite email expressing your interest and willingness to help can go a long way.

Independent Research: If formal programs aren’t an option, consider designing your own research project at home. For example, you could study plant growth under different conditions, analyze local water quality, or monitor animal behavior in your community.

Why It Matters: Research experience shows admissions officers that you have the skills to explore complex problems, think critically, and work independently—qualities essential for a biology major.

2. Volunteer or Work in a Science-Related Role

Volunteering or working in a science-related setting is another excellent way to build experience and demonstrate your passion for biology.

• Animal Shelters and Wildlife Centers: If you’re interested in animal biology, look for opportunities to volunteer at shelters, rehabilitation centers, or conservation organizations. Helping care for animals gives you insight into animal behavior, physiology, and care.
• Environmental Organizations: Get involved with local environmental groups that focus on conservation, tree planting, or community cleanups. This is a great way to learn about ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
• Healthcare Volunteering: If you’re drawn to human biology or medicine, consider volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. Shadowing doctors, helping with administrative work, or interacting with patients can give you valuable exposure to healthcare settings.

Why It Matters: Volunteer work highlights your commitment to science and service while helping you develop skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

3. Take Biology or Science-Related Courses

Use the summer to explore biology topics that go beyond what’s taught in your high school classroom. Taking additional courses shows initiative and intellectual curiosity.

• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy offer courses in genetics, marine biology, neuroscience, and more. You can explore advanced topics like bioinformatics, immunology, or microbiology at your own pace.
• Community College Classes: Check if local community colleges offer summer courses in biology, chemistry, or environmental science. Earning college credit while still in high school demonstrates academic readiness for rigorous college programs.

Pro Tip: Focus on courses that align with your specific interests—whether that’s ecology, molecular biology, or anatomy—and use the experience to identify areas of passion within the broad field of biology.

4. Explore the Natural World

Not all summer learning has to happen in a lab or classroom. Biology is the study of life, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than by spending time outdoors.

• Hiking and Field Exploration: Visit local parks, nature reserves, or wildlife habitats to observe ecosystems and document what you see. Keep a journal of plants, animals, and natural patterns you encounter.
• Citizen Science Projects: Participate in programs like iNaturalist, eBird, or Project BudBurst that allow you to contribute to real scientific research by documenting local wildlife or environmental changes.
• Gardening or Ecosystem Projects: Start a garden, create a backyard habitat for pollinators, or explore composting. These projects give you firsthand experience with biological processes like plant growth, soil health, and biodiversity.

Why It Matters: Field experiences fuel your curiosity about biology and can inspire future research or essay topics. They show that you’re someone who actively engages with science in the real world.

For future biology majors, summer is an opportunity to grow, explore, and develop a passion for science that stands out to admissions officers. Whether you’re conducting research, volunteering, or exploring nature, the key is to engage in activities that align with your interests and demonstrate initiative.