Want the insider truth about admissions? Selective colleges want more than strong GPAs—they want curiosity, initiative, and alignment with your future major. While it seems like an impossible standard, a unique solution for university-bound students is on the rise: academic research. This article will walk students through how to pursue research in high school, and why it can be a game-changer for college admissions.
Why Research Matters for High School Students
Yep, you heard right: a perfect GPA, test scores, or even starting a company (or two) by the time you’re a teen isn’t enough for the top colleges anymore. So what do they want?
Selective colleges are no longer just looking for students who earn top grades and ace standardized tests. They’re looking for applicants who show intellectual curiosity, initiative, and alignment with their intended field of study. For high school students interested in competitive college admissions, participating in research is quickly becoming one of the most meaningful ways to stand out.
Internships, pre-college programs, part-time jobs, and volunteer work are all valuable. But research offers a unique opportunity: it showcases your ability to think critically, explore complex topics in-depth, and demonstrate a real-world connection to your academic interests.
What does this all mean for you?
Engaging in research as a high school student can open doors. It’s a chance to work with mentors, explore topics you care about, and gain a clearer sense of direction before college even begins. Plus, it can strengthen your application by reinforcing your intended major and proving you’re ready for college-level thinking.
In this article, we’ll break down how to find and pursue high school research opportunities—whether you want to work in a lab, conduct a humanities project, or explore your own passion through independent research.
What Counts as High School Research?
When most people think of research, they picture a student in a white lab coat pouring liquids into test tubes. And while laboratory science is one common type of research, it’s far from the only path. Research isn’t just for STEM students!
If you’re passionate about literature, history, art, or the social sciences, you can still engage in meaningful inquiry. High school research opportunities come in many forms, across many academic disciplines. What matters most is that you’re asking thoughtful questions, gathering information in a structured way, and working toward new insights or solutions.
Some examples of research include:
- Conducting biology experiments in a university lab
- Comparing themes in post-colonial literature
- Analyzing historical documents for a paper on civil rights, or how protest art has influenced political movements through time
- Interviewing community members for a sociology project
- Creating an economic model or simulation
- Collecting and visualizing public health data
- Exploring environmental changes in your local area
Research can also vary by format. You might work independently, join a team, or participate in a summer program led by professors or graduate students. Some students contribute to formal research projects led by mentors, while others design their own study around a problem that matters to them.
In other words, your research doesn’t need a lab—it needs a question, critical thinking, and a desire to uncover new insights. These projects can be presented in the form of essays, multimedia exhibitions, or community talks, and are equally valuable. If you’re asking original questions, collecting and analyzing data, and thoughtfully presenting your findings, you’re doing research.
Some common myths about high school research
Before you dive in, let’s clear up a few myths that stop many students from getting started.
“I need to work in a university lab.”
False. Independent research, community-based projects, and virtual mentorships all count.
“If I don’t publish my work, it’s not valuable.”
Nope! Most research doesn’t end in publication. The learning process, not the result, is what matters most to colleges.
“I have to do a huge project to stand out.”
Quality over quantity. A well-executed small project can be more impressive than a broad one with little depth.
“Only science counts as research.”
Absolutely not. Research in the arts, humanities, and social sciences is powerful and highly valued.
Benefits of Research for College-Bound Students
So, why should you pursue research in high school?
It’s not just about impressing admissions officers—although that’s certainly a bonus. Participating in research builds a range of academic and personal skills that can shape your college application and long-term goals.
Here’s the truth about what research can offer you:
It proves intellectual curiosity.
Selective colleges want to see that you’re curious about the world and willing to go beyond the classroom to explore your interests. Research is a direct demonstration that you’re not just a good student—you’re an independent thinker.
It helps clarify your academic and career direction.
Spending time on a focused project can help you decide if a major or career path is truly right for you. You might confirm your passion for biology, or discover that public health is more engaging than clinical medicine.
It develops college-ready skills.
From analyzing data to writing formal reports, research teaches you skills that mirror what you’ll be doing in college. You’ll also learn how to manage deadlines, communicate with mentors, and solve problems creatively.
It can lead to valuable outcomes.
Some students end up co-authoring papers, entering competitions, or presenting their work at science fairs or conferences. Even if your project isn’t published, it can still make for an impressive addition to your college application—and a great talking point in interviews.
It shows alignment with your intended major.
If you say you want to study neuroscience, admissions officers want to see that you’ve taken steps to explore that interest. A research experience—especially one with depth and commitment—helps you build that narrative.
As one Empowerly student shared in our feature on high school research, pursuing a project with a Harvard mentor helped them gain clarity on their future goals and stand out in a competitive applicant pool. You can read more about that journey here: High School Research Advice from a Harvard Entrepreneur
The bottom line? Research is more than a resume booster. It’s a meaningful way to develop your interests and communicate who you are as a learner.
How to Find Research Opportunities in High School
Now that you understand the value of research, the next question is: how do you actually find opportunities?
The good news is that research isn’t reserved for college students or advanced scholars. With persistence and the right strategy, motivated high schoolers can access meaningful research experiences—both locally and online.
Start by looking close to home.
Check with your high school’s science or humanities teachers, guidance counselor, or college advisor. Some schools have partnerships with local universities, nonprofits, or summer programs that offer student research opportunities.
Reach out to local colleges and universities.
Many high school students find success by directly emailing professors or graduate students whose work aligns with their interests. If you live near a university, explore faculty bios on departmental websites. When you find a professor whose research intrigues you, send a brief, polite email expressing your interest and asking if there are opportunities to assist or observe.
Explore virtual or hybrid programs.
Since the pandemic, more institutions and organizations now offer virtual research programs designed for high school students. These can be great options if you don’t live near a major research university or want to explore a topic independently with guidance from a mentor.
Examples include:
- University-affiliated summer academies
- Nonprofits focused on youth research in STEM or social justice
- Online mentorship platforms connecting students with researchers
Use summer to your advantage.
Summer break is one of the best times to engage in research. Without the demands of school, you can dedicate meaningful time to a project. Look for summer research intensives, pre-college programs, or even part-time internships with local labs or organizations.
And don’t forget to apply early—many summer programs have deadlines as early as January or February.
Finding research as a high school student takes initiative, but it’s absolutely possible. In the next section, we’ll walk through what to do if you can’t find a formal program—and how to create opportunities on your own.
This video has more helpful tips for your search:
What to Do if You Can’t Find a Formal Research Program
Not every student has access to a lab or mentorship program—and that’s okay. If you can’t find a formal research opportunity through a school or university, you can still gain meaningful experience by designing your own. Independent or self-guided research can be just as impressive—sometimes more so—because it shows initiative, creativity, and the ability to work without a pre-set structure.
Here are a few ways to create your own opportunity:
Design a research project around a topic you care about.
Think about the questions you’d like to answer in your intended field. For example:
- A student interested in psychology might survey peers about screen time and stress
- An aspiring environmental science major could collect and analyze water samples
- A student interested in education policy might research disparities in school funding
You don’t need fancy tools or a lab. What matters most is that you follow a research process: ask a question, gather information, test or analyze your data, and reflect on your findings.
Learn research skills online.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider taking an introductory course on platforms like Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy. Topics like research design, statistics, and scientific writing are available for free or at low cost and will help you feel more confident designing your own study.
Look for research-based competitions.
Many high school competitions are rooted in independent research, including:
- Regeneron Science Talent Search
- Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS)
- Google Science Fair
- Local science fairs or innovation expos
These competitions often accept original projects, whether they’re scientific experiments or theoretical research.
Collaborate with a mentor.
Even if you don’t have a formal placement, you may still find a teacher, librarian, or community expert who’s willing to support your idea or provide feedback. They can help guide your process and improve your final product.
Document your work.
Keep a research journal, create a portfolio, or build a simple website where you explain your project and share results. This not only helps with college applications—it also strengthens your communication and presentation skills.
Self-started research can be just as powerful as any formal program. It shows that you’re not waiting for opportunities—you’re creating them.
How to Make the Most of Your Research Experience
Once you’ve secured a research opportunity—or created your own—the next step is making it count. The value of your experience doesn’t come just from participation, but from how deeply you engage with the process and how well you reflect on what you’ve learned.
Here’s how to make the most of your time:
Stay curious and proactive.
Ask questions. Take initiative. Don’t be afraid to raise ideas, propose solutions, or volunteer for new tasks. Even if you’re working under a mentor, they’ll notice when you show genuine interest and a willingness to learn.
Keep a research journal.
Track your work, observations, challenges, and breakthroughs along the way. This can be as simple as a Google Doc or a notebook. When it’s time to write college essays or reflect on your activities, these notes will help you tell a compelling and detailed story.
Build relationships with mentors.
Your mentor or supervisor can become a valuable part of your academic journey, especially when it comes time for recommendation letters. Be respectful, communicative, and consistent in your efforts. Show that you’re dependable and eager to grow.
Aim for depth over breadth.
You don’t need to do multiple research projects to impress colleges. One meaningful experience—carried out thoughtfully over time—can be more impactful than several surface-level engagements.
Translate your work into your application.
Did your research influence your career goals? Teach you something unexpected? Result in a presentation or publication? Whether you include it in your personal statement, supplemental essays, or activities list, your research can serve as a rich source of content for your college application.
When you write, go beyond stating what you did. Adding more detail helps your research become a personal story, not just an activity. Take time to reflect on:
- What challenged you, and how you overcame it
- What surprised you or changed your thinking
- What skills you gained (and how you could use them in college)
- What your research taught you about the world—or yourself
Look for ways to share your work.
Consider entering a competition, writing an article, presenting at a local science fair, or building a simple website to showcase your findings. Sharing your research publicly signals confidence and commitment to your ideas.
The bottom line: research isn’t just about the results. It’s about your process, growth, and what the experience reveals about who you are as a thinker and learner.
Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program (RSP)
If you’re excited about research but unsure where to begin—or if you want structured mentorship and expert guidance—Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program (RSP) is built for students like you.
The RSP connects high school students with real research mentors, including PhDs, postdocs, and professionals from top universities and research institutions. Whether you’re interested in neuroscience, environmental studies, computer science, public policy, or another field, you can explore your passion through a personalized, project-based experience.
Here’s what makes the Research Scholar Program stand out:
One-on-one mentorship
You’ll be paired with a mentor who works in your area of interest. Together, you’ll design a project, set goals, and explore the research process in depth.
Flexible formats
RSP works around your schedule—whether you want a summer deep dive or a semester-long experience alongside school. The program is designed to be accessible and tailored to each student.
Skill-building and outcomes
Students in the RSP gain valuable academic and research skills that carry over into college and beyond. Many complete original research papers, presentations, or capstone projects you can include in applications, portfolios, or competitions.
A clear connection to your college goals
Empowerly’s team helps students integrate their research experience into the larger college admissions strategy. That includes guidance on how to reflect on research in essays, resumes, and interviews.
Past participants have explored everything from gene editing to global economics—and many have gone on to earn admission at top-tier schools, thanks in part to the clarity and confidence gained through the RSP.
If you’re serious about high school research and want expert support every step of the way, Empowerly’s RSP is an ideal starting point.
Conclusion: Your Curiosity Is Your Superpower
When it comes to preparing for college—and for the future—curiosity is one of your most powerful assets. Research gives you the chance to explore what excites you, challenge your assumptions, and demonstrate the kind of intellectual initiative that selective colleges are eager to see.
Whether you find a structured program, partner with a mentor, or launch your own independent project, pursuing research in high school helps you grow as a student and a thinker. It’s a signal to admissions committees that you’re not just preparing for college—you’re already thinking like a scholar.
And you don’t have to figure it out alone. Empowerly’s team of expert counselors and mentors can help you identify research opportunities, build your project from the ground up, and connect your experience to your larger academic and career goals. Book a free consultation today to explore how Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program can help you pursue meaningful high school research—on your terms and on your timeline.
Your research journey starts here.
