Hello, guys!
I am currently a sophomore and thinking about going into the STEM field.
Basically, I have taking a lot of computer-related courses in the school and out like online courses.
I have done some STEM-related volunteering experiences too; I am working as a volunteer at Liberty Science Center, working as a volunteer at my town’s senior center teaching computers/phones to elders, working as a member of the Midnight Run every month, and working as a volunteer at this church helping disabled kids.
I just got a letter from my school that I have accepted to participate in this internship opportunity at Columbia university called Lamont Doherty Observatory. I will be working on earth science research.
And here comes complications. I have to pay $1000 for this internship opportunity and one girl who’s done this is going to stanford but she has done other stuffs so im sure this didn’t play a huge part in her acceptance, but still makes me feel obliged to participate in this program if I want to improve my extracurricular activities. Number 2: I have been doing lots of computer-related activities and been thinking about going into that area. And, this internship is really not computer-related at least for now, because I did not get so much information about what to expect. So, the fact that it’s earth science makes me feel like I don’t have to do this for to go into computer-related field. #3: I am also really into environmental issues and this internship does grab my attention and interest. Environment is definitely one of my many passions. I am even working with the school to get some grants on implementing more eco-friendly environment in the school.
So… What do you think I should do…? Should I do the internship or what?
There are other ways to get involved with environmental science and related subjects without going to a college-sponsored internship. And luckily, most of them are free!
Make sure that you’re doing what you want to do. If you really want to take the offer, go ahead. It’ll add to your application, but not tremendously, as colleges recognize that there is a $$$ gap involved and not everyone can afford a summer program.
What you’re doing is already great and better (imo) than the college-sponsored internship. Your volunteer work is really great and much more focused than most people’s collection of volunteer work (this is a good thing). The work with your school on grants is perfect. That showcases persistence, real-world skills, organization, and the want and follow through involved with making a meaningful difference. If I were you, I would bypass the internship, expand your volunteer work into environmental issues, and work towards winning that grant.
You’re doing great!
Thank you for the encouragement! Your comment really replenishes my self-confidence!
I will definitely take your opinion into account and thank you so much for your help!
I don’t really think that internship is going to help you tremendously, but it might give you a slight boost. If it makes any difference in admissions (which no one can guarantee) that is money well spent.
That is what I think… So, I decided to do the internship!
And, to add, I did win the grant!