Of course, you know that taking classes at your local college will help you when it comes time to apply for college. Did you know that there is another great opportunity to be had at your local university?

I want to be sure you understand that I am talking about fully accredited, four-year universities, not community colleges.

If you are a student who is focusing on academics, math or science, this information is particularly pertinent; however, it can also help any student to gain experience and present a more well-rounded application for college admission.

The universities have lots of professors who do a variety of research projects with graduate students, undergraduates, and post-doctoral students. These professors are always looking for free labor!

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Get in touch with your local university professors. If you are already enrolled in a few classes, this will be easy. Even if you aren't, you can always send e mails t a few professors offering to help. You could also find out if your parents have any connections with the university. This can be very helpful.

You may be able to get high school credit in exchange for your work, but even if you just do it on a voluntary basis, it will be beneficial to you in a number of ways.

This sort of project really looks good on your applications to colleges. If your research leads to a paper or presentation, this is even more true. This kind of project can be entered in a Science Fair, and of course, it is a tremendous plus on your application to Harvard.

I cannot stress enough that college admissions offices are very impressed when they see that you have shown this kind of commitment and ability to work.

Additionally, doing this sort of project will help you to define your own interests. When you apply to an Ivy League school, this kind of accomplishment will really help you. Don't hesitate. Get started making connections with some professors right away. Ask your parents and your teachers to help you make connections so you can get the most from this opportunity.

Click here for more on high school scientific research.