Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Greetings,

I am having a lot of difficulty getting into a lab. I have an internship in a lab were I can assist in the procedures but my mentor said I am to young for the hospital I work at to allow me to do my own research. I have tried many diffrent places. Many scientists have said they were very impressed by my work so far. I am at a very frustrating point. All the labs I try to get say I am to young (I am in the 10th grade). Any help would be much appreciated!!!!

John1010,

I absolutly don't want to discourage. It sounds like you have a clear goal in mind and that will help keep you focused on providing the good work that is getting praised already. However, I don't know of any professional lab that will let a high school student (or an undergraduate college student for that matter) perform their own research. There is often too much on the line with respect to time, money, resources, etc... As you said, you are an intern. If we look that up: "Intern - A student or a recent graduate undergoing supervised practical training" It sounds like this is exactly what you are doing, working precisely at the level you are at.

My advice to you is simple: Relax, and keep the good work up. You have tons of time and plenty to learn. Your job now is to observe and learn from your mentor and fellow researchers. As you continue to perform the work above expectations, you may be offered more and more responsibility (this, of course, is up to the project lead and policies of the lab you are working at).

Okay thanks