6 answers
Eshita
Student
Metairie, Louisiana
4
Questions
Asked
1664 views
How do I find labs to shadow as a junior in high school and how do I reach out to them to say I'm interested?
Hi! I am a junior in high school, and I am interested in chemistry. However, to solidify if I want to go into research, I want to get lab experience and shadow someone in a lab. I have already taken all of the advanced chemistry courses my high school offers, scored high, and enjoyed the content. But I don't know where to find these experiences and how to contact these places. I don't want to get paid to be in these labs. I just want to observe what they do in labs. Should I look into university labs?
6 answers
Ching-Hung Chang
Scientist
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Ching-Hung’s Answer
Hi Eshita,
Happy that you find what you are interested in and wants to have more experiences.
As far as I know, it may not be easy to find an internship opportunity at companies. But as you can find in the replies, schools and hospitals have opportunities, too.
You can try to google the opportunities with this kind of sentence, "STEM internship in [Massachusetts or Florida] for high school students."
And you will find something interesting. For example, you will see this if you live in MA.
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/youth-stem-internship-opportunities and from there you will obtain a lot of useful information.
Science is fun!
Ching-Hung
Happy that you find what you are interested in and wants to have more experiences.
As far as I know, it may not be easy to find an internship opportunity at companies. But as you can find in the replies, schools and hospitals have opportunities, too.
You can try to google the opportunities with this kind of sentence, "STEM internship in [Massachusetts or Florida] for high school students."
And you will find something interesting. For example, you will see this if you live in MA.
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/youth-stem-internship-opportunities and from there you will obtain a lot of useful information.
Science is fun!
Ching-Hung
Karin P.
Lecturer, Student Advisor
460
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Eshita,
I would start with the universities you have near you. I suggest universities first because you can get a look at different labs in one tour. University of New Orleans, Tulane University and Xavier are all in New Orleans.
University of New Orleans has a Department of Chemistry and the interdisciplinary Advanced Materials Research Institute:
https://www.uno.edu/academics/cos/chemistry
https://www.uno.edu/amri
They also have a summer program for high-school students where you get to work with the researchers on a project:
https://www.uno.edu/amri/summer-outreach
A couple of startup companies are associated with AMRI:
https://www.uno.edu/amri/companies
Tulane University and Xavier University also have chemistry departments:
https://sse.tulane.edu/chem
https://www.xula.edu/department/chemistry/index.html
Louisiana State University is in Baton Rouge just down the road:
https://www.lsu.edu/science/chemistry/index.php
You can look up contact information for each department. Introduce yourself, state what you are looking for and ask if you can get a tour of the facilities and possibly shadow some researchers.
I hope this helps! All the best!
KP
I would start with the universities you have near you. I suggest universities first because you can get a look at different labs in one tour. University of New Orleans, Tulane University and Xavier are all in New Orleans.
University of New Orleans has a Department of Chemistry and the interdisciplinary Advanced Materials Research Institute:
https://www.uno.edu/academics/cos/chemistry
https://www.uno.edu/amri
They also have a summer program for high-school students where you get to work with the researchers on a project:
https://www.uno.edu/amri/summer-outreach
A couple of startup companies are associated with AMRI:
https://www.uno.edu/amri/companies
Tulane University and Xavier University also have chemistry departments:
https://sse.tulane.edu/chem
https://www.xula.edu/department/chemistry/index.html
Louisiana State University is in Baton Rouge just down the road:
https://www.lsu.edu/science/chemistry/index.php
You can look up contact information for each department. Introduce yourself, state what you are looking for and ask if you can get a tour of the facilities and possibly shadow some researchers.
I hope this helps! All the best!
KP
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Finding Labs
University Labs: Many universities offer shadowing or volunteer opportunities for high school students. Look for chemistry departments at local universities and check their websites for such programs56.
Research Institutes: Institutes focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) often provide opportunities for students to engage with researchers4.
Local Hospitals or Medical Centers: Some hospitals have research departments where you might be able to observe lab work related to medical research3.
Reaching Out
Email Introduction:
Start by sending an email expressing your interest in shadowing.
Introduce yourself, mention your academic background (e.g., advanced chemistry courses), and explain why you're interested in the field.
Specify that you are looking for unpaid observational experiences.
Sample Email Template:
text
Subject: Request for Lab Shadowing Opportunity
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a junior at [Your High School]. I have been deeply interested in chemistry since taking advanced courses at my school.
I am reaching out because I would like to explore the possibility of shadowing someone in your lab as part of my educational journey. This opportunity would allow me to gain insight into what it means to work in a research environment.
Thank you very much,
[Your Full Name]
Follow-Up: If necessary, send a polite follow-up email after about two weeks if you haven't received a response.
Networking: Ask teachers or mentors if they know anyone who works in labs that might be open to hosting students.
I believe this should do.
University Labs: Many universities offer shadowing or volunteer opportunities for high school students. Look for chemistry departments at local universities and check their websites for such programs56.
Research Institutes: Institutes focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) often provide opportunities for students to engage with researchers4.
Local Hospitals or Medical Centers: Some hospitals have research departments where you might be able to observe lab work related to medical research3.
Reaching Out
Email Introduction:
Start by sending an email expressing your interest in shadowing.
Introduce yourself, mention your academic background (e.g., advanced chemistry courses), and explain why you're interested in the field.
Specify that you are looking for unpaid observational experiences.
Sample Email Template:
text
Subject: Request for Lab Shadowing Opportunity
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a junior at [Your High School]. I have been deeply interested in chemistry since taking advanced courses at my school.
I am reaching out because I would like to explore the possibility of shadowing someone in your lab as part of my educational journey. This opportunity would allow me to gain insight into what it means to work in a research environment.
Thank you very much,
[Your Full Name]
Follow-Up: If necessary, send a polite follow-up email after about two weeks if you haven't received a response.
Networking: Ask teachers or mentors if they know anyone who works in labs that might be open to hosting students.
I believe this should do.
Fazal Elahi
online assignment writer and content writer
70
Answers
Chitrāl, N.W.F.P
Updated
Fazal’s Answer
Hi
Tracking down labs to shadow as a secondary school junior requires research and proactive correspondence. Here is a bit by bit guide:
Tracking down Labs to Shadow
1. Really look at Nearby Colleges and Schools - Take a gander at the science, science, or zoology divisions on college sites. Numerous teachers have research pages posting their lab projects.
2. See Exploration Establishments and Emergency clinics - In the event that you're keen on clinical or veterinary examination, check neighborhood clinics, research foundations, or veterinary schools.
3. Investigate Government and Philanthropic Associations - Offices like the USDA, EPA, or natural life preservation associations might have lab research programs.
4. Ask Your Instructors or Advisors - Science educators might have associations with analysts.
5. Use LinkedIn and Systems administration - Quest for experts in your field of interest and get some information about shadowing valuable open doors.
6. Go to Science Occasions and Gatherings - Nearby science fairs, STEM exhibitions, or college open houses are extraordinary spots to meet specialists.
Instructions to Connect
1. Email or Call - Teachers and lab chiefs are normally occupied, so a brief, courteous email is ideal. Model email:
Subject: Secondary School Understudy Keen on Shadowing Your Lab
Dear [Dr./Teacher Last Name],
I go by [Your Name], and I'm a lesser in secondary school with areas of strength for an in [specific field, e.g., zoology, microbial science, biomedical research]. I ran over your exploration on [specific topic] and would adore the chance to learn more by shadowing or aiding your lab.
I comprehend that labs are occupied, however in the event that there's a way I could notice or contribute, even in a little way, I would extraordinarily see the value in the experience. Kindly let me know as to whether you would be available to examining this further. Much thanks to you for your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
2. Follow Up - In the event that you don't hear back in up to 14 days, send a respectful subsequent email.
3. Be Adaptable - A few labs might have age limitations or restricted limit. If one says no, inquire as to whether they are aware of some other open doors.
Tracking down labs to shadow as a secondary school junior requires research and proactive correspondence. Here is a bit by bit guide:
Tracking down Labs to Shadow
1. Really look at Nearby Colleges and Schools - Take a gander at the science, science, or zoology divisions on college sites. Numerous teachers have research pages posting their lab projects.
2. See Exploration Establishments and Emergency clinics - In the event that you're keen on clinical or veterinary examination, check neighborhood clinics, research foundations, or veterinary schools.
3. Investigate Government and Philanthropic Associations - Offices like the USDA, EPA, or natural life preservation associations might have lab research programs.
4. Ask Your Instructors or Advisors - Science educators might have associations with analysts.
5. Use LinkedIn and Systems administration - Quest for experts in your field of interest and get some information about shadowing valuable open doors.
6. Go to Science Occasions and Gatherings - Nearby science fairs, STEM exhibitions, or college open houses are extraordinary spots to meet specialists.
Instructions to Connect
1. Email or Call - Teachers and lab chiefs are normally occupied, so a brief, courteous email is ideal. Model email:
Subject: Secondary School Understudy Keen on Shadowing Your Lab
Dear [Dr./Teacher Last Name],
I go by [Your Name], and I'm a lesser in secondary school with areas of strength for an in [specific field, e.g., zoology, microbial science, biomedical research]. I ran over your exploration on [specific topic] and would adore the chance to learn more by shadowing or aiding your lab.
I comprehend that labs are occupied, however in the event that there's a way I could notice or contribute, even in a little way, I would extraordinarily see the value in the experience. Kindly let me know as to whether you would be available to examining this further. Much thanks to you for your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
2. Follow Up - In the event that you don't hear back in up to 14 days, send a respectful subsequent email.
3. Be Adaptable - A few labs might have age limitations or restricted limit. If one says no, inquire as to whether they are aware of some other open doors.
Tony Roig
Volunteer
67
Answers
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Hi Eshita,
Very good idea for you to think ahead about your career choices and taking such initiative. Not only will it help provide you direction but it will also open other doors in the future. I join the others who replied to you and also recommend University labs vs private Labs as they are more likely to welcome such a request. Always helps to get a referral from someone who in addition to your chemistry teacher, feel free to ask other teachers you know that have graduated from local colleges/universities as well as your career guidance office who have connections with local Universities and colleges. Other sources might be local employers who have participated in local employers career events (ask your guidance office).
Good luck!
Tony
Very good idea for you to think ahead about your career choices and taking such initiative. Not only will it help provide you direction but it will also open other doors in the future. I join the others who replied to you and also recommend University labs vs private Labs as they are more likely to welcome such a request. Always helps to get a referral from someone who in addition to your chemistry teacher, feel free to ask other teachers you know that have graduated from local colleges/universities as well as your career guidance office who have connections with local Universities and colleges. Other sources might be local employers who have participated in local employers career events (ask your guidance office).
Good luck!
Tony
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Ashita,
Finding a lab to shadow as a high school junior might feel like a chemistry experiment itself—mix a little research, add a dash of confidence, and hope for a reaction (preferably not an explosive one)👀. But don’t worry, You got this!
So here is the places you can look into so you can catch that shadowing opportunity and become Peter pan on the quest!
1. University Labs – Professors love students who are eager to learn (and who won’t spill acid everywhere). Check the chemistry department websites of nearby universities. Look for research projects that sound interesting and email the professor leading them.
2. Local Hospitals & Research Centers – Some hospitals have research labs in areas like medical chemistry or pharmaceuticals. They might allow you to observe their work.
3. Biotech Companies – Startups and research companies sometimes take in students to show them the ropes. Just make sure they aren’t secretly developing a mutant super-serum.
4. High School Teachers – Your chemistry teacher might have connections. They may know a past student or a friendly professor who could help.
5. Science Museums & Outreach Programs – Some institutions offer programs for young students interested in STEM.
Now remember Eshita,
Emailing a scientist may sound intimidating, but remember—they were once students too. Keep it professional yet enthusiastic. You can mention your interest in the field and any experiences you have had even a moment which got you amused, you never know what catches their attention!
Here is a little tippie toes to help too and hope it does.
Keep it Short & Sweet – Scientists are busy people. A clear, to-the-point email works best.
Follow Up – If you don’t hear back in a week or two, send a polite follow-up email. Sometimes they just miss the first one.
Use Your Network – If a teacher or family friend can introduce you to someone, that’s gold!
Be Open-Minded – Maybe you don’t get into the first lab you reach out to, but another might say yes. Stay persistent!
Who knows? This might be the first step toward your Nobel Prize in Chemistry (or at least a really cool experience for your college applications). Good luck an remember if you need anything else or if I missed anything just let me know!
Finding a lab to shadow as a high school junior might feel like a chemistry experiment itself—mix a little research, add a dash of confidence, and hope for a reaction (preferably not an explosive one)👀. But don’t worry, You got this!
So here is the places you can look into so you can catch that shadowing opportunity and become Peter pan on the quest!
1. University Labs – Professors love students who are eager to learn (and who won’t spill acid everywhere). Check the chemistry department websites of nearby universities. Look for research projects that sound interesting and email the professor leading them.
2. Local Hospitals & Research Centers – Some hospitals have research labs in areas like medical chemistry or pharmaceuticals. They might allow you to observe their work.
3. Biotech Companies – Startups and research companies sometimes take in students to show them the ropes. Just make sure they aren’t secretly developing a mutant super-serum.
4. High School Teachers – Your chemistry teacher might have connections. They may know a past student or a friendly professor who could help.
5. Science Museums & Outreach Programs – Some institutions offer programs for young students interested in STEM.
Now remember Eshita,
Emailing a scientist may sound intimidating, but remember—they were once students too. Keep it professional yet enthusiastic. You can mention your interest in the field and any experiences you have had even a moment which got you amused, you never know what catches their attention!
Here is a little tippie toes to help too and hope it does.
Keep it Short & Sweet – Scientists are busy people. A clear, to-the-point email works best.
Follow Up – If you don’t hear back in a week or two, send a polite follow-up email. Sometimes they just miss the first one.
Use Your Network – If a teacher or family friend can introduce you to someone, that’s gold!
Be Open-Minded – Maybe you don’t get into the first lab you reach out to, but another might say yes. Stay persistent!
Who knows? This might be the first step toward your Nobel Prize in Chemistry (or at least a really cool experience for your college applications). Good luck an remember if you need anything else or if I missed anything just let me know!
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