4 answers
Melinda
Student
Belmont, California
1
Question
Asked
3544 views
what are some extracurricular ideas for someone with interests in psych + bio?
what are some things i can do to start building my college app around an interest in psych + bio? [extracurriculars, competitions, etc]
i’ll be a rising sophomore this summer + i’m scared i’m not doing enough to stand out to colleges in the future 😰
any advice is appreciated <3
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4 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Melinda, first of all, take a deep breath. You’re already ahead of so many people just by thinking about this now, so don’t stress about not doing enough—you’ve got plenty of time to build something meaningful. The key isn’t to do everything, but to find what excites you and go deep into it. That’s what will make you stand out.
Since you’re into psych and bio, there are so many ways to combine them in a way that feels both fun and impressive. One of the best things you can do is get involved in hands-on experiences, whether through research, competitions, projects, or even just creating something on your own.
If you’re curious about how the brain works, you could start small by running your own mini-experiments—maybe testing how music affects memory or how different lighting impacts focus. Even something as simple as observing patterns in people’s behavior and writing about it could turn into a solid project. And if you love breaking down concepts, starting a blog, TikTok, or even an Instagram page where you explain psychology and neuroscience in an engaging way could be a fun way to showcase your interest.
Competitions are another great way to challenge yourself. The Brain Bee is all about neuroscience and could be a perfect fit for you. If you’re more into broader biology topics, the USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) could be worth checking out. Science fairs, ISEF, and the Regeneron Science Talent Search are also huge if you want to work on an independent research project. These competitions aren’t just about winning—they push you to think critically and give you real-world experience in solving problems.
If you’re more of a hands-on learner, you might want to look into shadowing opportunities at research labs, therapy clinics, or even volunteering in places where psychology and biology intersect, like nursing homes or crisis hotlines. Working with people firsthand can teach you more than any textbook. And if your school doesn’t have a neuroscience or psych club, why not start one? It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a group of people interested in the brain, discussing cool research, and maybe even running small experiments together.
Summer programs can also be a game-changer. Places like Yale’s BBSU, Stanford’s Neuro Academy, and NIH’s summer research programs offer some incredible opportunities to dive deeper into psych and bio. They can also connect you with mentors who can guide you in your journey.
But here’s the thing—colleges don’t just want a long list of activities. They want to see passion, curiosity, and consistency. It’s better to do a few things really well than to spread yourself thin. Instead of worrying about standing out, focus on finding what genuinely excites you. When you do something you love, it’ll naturally shine through in your application.
And don’t be afraid to make your own path. If you don’t see an opportunity, create it. If you want to explore something but there’s no official way to do it, start a project on your own. That initiative? That’s what colleges love to see.
You’re on the right path Melinda. Just keep following what excites you, take small steps, and trust that it’ll all come together. You’ve got this, and know we are here for you girl! 🤗
Since you’re into psych and bio, there are so many ways to combine them in a way that feels both fun and impressive. One of the best things you can do is get involved in hands-on experiences, whether through research, competitions, projects, or even just creating something on your own.
If you’re curious about how the brain works, you could start small by running your own mini-experiments—maybe testing how music affects memory or how different lighting impacts focus. Even something as simple as observing patterns in people’s behavior and writing about it could turn into a solid project. And if you love breaking down concepts, starting a blog, TikTok, or even an Instagram page where you explain psychology and neuroscience in an engaging way could be a fun way to showcase your interest.
Competitions are another great way to challenge yourself. The Brain Bee is all about neuroscience and could be a perfect fit for you. If you’re more into broader biology topics, the USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) could be worth checking out. Science fairs, ISEF, and the Regeneron Science Talent Search are also huge if you want to work on an independent research project. These competitions aren’t just about winning—they push you to think critically and give you real-world experience in solving problems.
If you’re more of a hands-on learner, you might want to look into shadowing opportunities at research labs, therapy clinics, or even volunteering in places where psychology and biology intersect, like nursing homes or crisis hotlines. Working with people firsthand can teach you more than any textbook. And if your school doesn’t have a neuroscience or psych club, why not start one? It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a group of people interested in the brain, discussing cool research, and maybe even running small experiments together.
Summer programs can also be a game-changer. Places like Yale’s BBSU, Stanford’s Neuro Academy, and NIH’s summer research programs offer some incredible opportunities to dive deeper into psych and bio. They can also connect you with mentors who can guide you in your journey.
But here’s the thing—colleges don’t just want a long list of activities. They want to see passion, curiosity, and consistency. It’s better to do a few things really well than to spread yourself thin. Instead of worrying about standing out, focus on finding what genuinely excites you. When you do something you love, it’ll naturally shine through in your application.
And don’t be afraid to make your own path. If you don’t see an opportunity, create it. If you want to explore something but there’s no official way to do it, start a project on your own. That initiative? That’s what colleges love to see.
You’re on the right path Melinda. Just keep following what excites you, take small steps, and trust that it’ll all come together. You’ve got this, and know we are here for you girl! 🤗
thank you so much for the advice !!
Melinda
Learning is a journey, and it’s an honor to walk part of it with mentors like you, Doctor Frick! Thank you for your support!
Dr H
You're very welcome, Melinda! Always happy to share what I can. Glad it helped! Stay blessed dear! 🤗
Dr H
Good advice d r h
Ach Nix
You're very veeeery welcome, Melinda! Always happy to help. If you ever need anything else, just ask.
Dr H
Bright Komor
Nurse
260
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
As a future pediatrician, you can play a crucial role in identifying and helping victims of human trafficking, especially children. There are several medical career paths that directly contribute to stopping human trafficking, including pediatricians specializing in child abuse and trafficking cases, forensic nurses or sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE), emergency medicine physicians, public health specialists in human trafficking prevention, obstetric/gynecologists specializing in trafficking & women's health, mental health professionals, and medical directors for anti-trafficking nonprofits and NGOs.
Pediatricians can work in child advocacy centers, emergency rooms, or specialized clinics to recognize and treat trafficked children. Forensic nurses work in hospitals, law enforcement, and clinics to treat and document injuries in victims of trafficking and abuse. Emergency doctors trained in recognizing trafficking can intervene, report cases, and connect victims with resources.
Public health specialists in human trafficking prevention can work on research, policy-making, and prevention programs related to trafficking, collaborating with NGOs, the CDC, WHO, and government agencies to stop trafficking at a systemic level. OB/GYNs specializing in trafficking and women's health are essential in identifying and protecting victims, working with victim advocacy groups and shelters to provide trauma-informed care.
Mental health professionals can help survivors with PTSD, depression, and anxiety by becoming child psychiatrists or trauma therapists. Medical directors for anti-trafficking nonprofits and NGOs can lead global or local medical initiatives focusing on rescuing and rehabilitating trafficking victims.
To prepare for these careers, take human rights and public health courses in college, get involved with anti-trafficking organizations, shadow ER doctors, forensic nurses, or pediatricians, and pursue medical mission trips or research opportunities related to human trafficking.
Pediatricians can work in child advocacy centers, emergency rooms, or specialized clinics to recognize and treat trafficked children. Forensic nurses work in hospitals, law enforcement, and clinics to treat and document injuries in victims of trafficking and abuse. Emergency doctors trained in recognizing trafficking can intervene, report cases, and connect victims with resources.
Public health specialists in human trafficking prevention can work on research, policy-making, and prevention programs related to trafficking, collaborating with NGOs, the CDC, WHO, and government agencies to stop trafficking at a systemic level. OB/GYNs specializing in trafficking and women's health are essential in identifying and protecting victims, working with victim advocacy groups and shelters to provide trauma-informed care.
Mental health professionals can help survivors with PTSD, depression, and anxiety by becoming child psychiatrists or trauma therapists. Medical directors for anti-trafficking nonprofits and NGOs can lead global or local medical initiatives focusing on rescuing and rehabilitating trafficking victims.
To prepare for these careers, take human rights and public health courses in college, get involved with anti-trafficking organizations, shadow ER doctors, forensic nurses, or pediatricians, and pursue medical mission trips or research opportunities related to human trafficking.
Sidia Wint
CNA/Healthcare Administrative support
3
Answers
Brooklyn Park, MD
Updated
Sidia’s Answer
Hello Melinda, congratulations on taking intentional and proactive steps toward planning your career path as a sophomore! I am confident you will be successful in all your endeavors, your dedication and foresight will keep you focus. Keep setting goals, learning and striving for excellence.
You're interested in psychology and biology, here are some extracurricular activities that can help build your skills, knowledge, and experience:
School Clubs & Organizations
Psychology Club – Learn about mental health, research, and careers in psychology.
Science Club or Biology Club – Participate in experiments, discussions, and competitions.
HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) – Great for students interested in healthcare and psychology-related fields.
Neuroscience Club (if available) – Explore brain science, behavior, and cognition.
Medical or Psychological Summer Programs – Many universities offer summer experiences for high school students.
Melinda, please remember to enjoy the journey, take time to explore , have fun, and create meaningful experiences along the way. balance is the key to a fulfilling and successful future! Keep up the great work! cheers!
Volunteer & Community Service Hospitals or Clinics: – Assist with patient interactions, mental health support, or general admin work. Crisis Hotlines or Mental Health Advocacy Groups – Gain experience in counseling and support. Animal Shelters or Zoos – Explore animal behavior and biological studies. Tutoring or Peer Counseling – Help others with psychology or biology coursework.
Research & Competitions Science Fairs: – Conduct research in neuroscience, genetics, or psychology-related topics. Brain Bee Competitions – Test your knowledge of the brain and neuroscience. Intel ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) – Conduct and present a psychology or biology research project.
Personal Projects & Other Activities: Start a Blog or Podcast – Discuss mental health, neuroscience, or biological research topics. Read & Review Scientific Papers – Join online forums or study groups that discuss psychology and biology topics. Take Online Courses (Coursera, edX, etc.) – Learn about cognitive science, neurobiology, or behavioral psychology. Create a Mental Health Awareness Initiative – Organize workshops or campaigns in
You're interested in psychology and biology, here are some extracurricular activities that can help build your skills, knowledge, and experience:
School Clubs & Organizations
Psychology Club – Learn about mental health, research, and careers in psychology.
Science Club or Biology Club – Participate in experiments, discussions, and competitions.
HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) – Great for students interested in healthcare and psychology-related fields.
Neuroscience Club (if available) – Explore brain science, behavior, and cognition.
Medical or Psychological Summer Programs – Many universities offer summer experiences for high school students.
Melinda, please remember to enjoy the journey, take time to explore , have fun, and create meaningful experiences along the way. balance is the key to a fulfilling and successful future! Keep up the great work! cheers!
Sidia recommends the following next steps:
Charnelle Saint-laurent
Observer analyst
70
Answers
Huntington Station, New York
Updated
Charnelle’s Answer
Hello,
Thank you for your question. Just too get your mind going I was thinking you could be an observer analyst or just just observer people when doing different activities through out the day for example like you can be tutoring a child and watch them. Let me know what you think, best of luck.
Sincerely,
Charnelle
Thank you for your question. Just too get your mind going I was thinking you could be an observer analyst or just just observer people when doing different activities through out the day for example like you can be tutoring a child and watch them. Let me know what you think, best of luck.
Sincerely,
Charnelle