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Scientific research can be one of the most compelling ways to level up your experience as a student, and allows you to unlock both an incredibly valuable journey and world of opportunity.

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Below are the ways in which one can get involved in scientific research - even as a total beginner.

Getting Involved in Research

The underlined titles are open to all ages and are widely accessible everywhere around the world.

Independent thesis & initiative

Independent research means taking the initiative to pursue an original question, field or method that interests you.

• This is perfect for when you’ve identified a gap in research, or an idea that you’d love to investigate, and want to take initiative without joining an already ongoing project.
• When conducted properly, an original finding exhibited by you can become an incredibly valuable & respectable achievement!
• Though research may be conducted without a mentor, we’d like to advise beginners who want guidance in their own projects to first seek a mentor and a proper investigation space/laboratory.

Joining an existing research lab/project

Scientific research is an incredibly broad topic, with existing passionate professionals worldwide. Many of them may be happy to take in passionate students/volunteers with the same interest in their field.

• Researchers and professors that work in a university will already have…

-Experience in mentoring students (undergraduates, etc.)

-Have access to relevant materials and resources

-Established connections to STEM faculty & other professionals

-Access to facilities for conducting science research

• Experienced researchers will also almost always have more than one project currently ongoing - and may have open space for a contributor.

Research camps and programs are courses specifically designed for youths wanting to gain experience and begin in research.

• The most prestigious STEM summer research camps and programs exist mainly in the USA and western regions. However, a few programs can still be found in Southeast Asia.
• For international & prestigious beginner friendly programs for high schoolers, check out https://sirel.org/database/?jsf=jet-engine&tax=type-of-activity:37
• These programs often cost money (some may be free or more affordable)
• Getting involved will be valuable to students simply looking to gain experience and build a profile - having attended these can be super beneficial when applying for a research internship.
• Click the arrow to open! Programs in Malaysia

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Though these are a great way to gain hands-on skills, be wary of programs that charge any unreasonable amount - these are profit-making schemes, and often aren’t as great of an addition to your resume as the damages to your financials.

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Science fairs

This is a lot like an independent research initiative - except with the ability to present your original findings at STEM workshops & competitions as a high schooler.

• Students who are already pursuing an independent research initiative can choose to get involved in science fairs and display their works.
• Some opportunities may allow chances to qualify for the International Science and Engineering Fair ISEF, the world’s largest and most prestigious pre-college STEM competition. For more science fair/competition related events, check out STEM-Related Resources