Genspace's Biorocket Internship for High Schoolers - Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a way to boost your profile while applying to college for a STEM program, consider a STEM internship! 

Here’s why. 

Participating in a STEM internship not only demonstrates a keen interest in the field but also shows initiative and a willingness to delve deeper into complex subjects outside of the regular school curriculum.

One such program that is a popular choice amongst high schoolers is the Biorocket Internship offered by Genspace. This blog post will explore whether this internship is worth your time and investment by diving into all the details – keep reading below! 

What is Genspace's Biorocket Internship?

Genspace, a community biolab in Brooklyn, NY, offers the Biorocket Internship to high school students passionate about biotechnology and synthetic biology. This program is designed to provide hands-on experience in a real laboratory setting, allowing students to work on cutting-edge projects and gain invaluable skills that can set them apart in their college applications.

Is Genspace's Biorocket Internship prestigious?

Genspace is well-regarded in the scientific community as a pioneer in community biotechnology. Participating in the Biorocket Internship not only gives students access to top-notch resources and mentorship but also adds a prestigious credential to their academic profiles. 

With an estimated acceptance rate of approximately 15-20%, the program attracts a large number of applicants. Due to the competitive nature of the program, being able to participate demonstrates a greater commitment to academic excellence, making it a great opportunity to write about for college applications. 

What is the structure of the Biorocket Internship?

The Biorocket Internship at Genspace is designed as an intensive, 6-month program that immerses high school students in the field of biotechnology. Participants are mentored by experienced scientists and gain access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. The program combines theoretical learning with practical lab work, ensuring that students not only understand the science behind biotechnology but also acquire hands-on skills.

The structure includes daily lectures or workshops followed by extensive lab sessions where students apply what they’ve learned to real-world projects. Additionally, the program features seminars from guest speakers who are experts in various biotech fields, providing insights into current industry trends and potential career paths. This comprehensive approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that covers both foundational concepts and advanced techniques in biotechnology.

In the curriculum, you’ll be expected to explore research spanning DNA sequencing, genetic modification, and bioinformatics. You will also be able to refine your lab techniques and analytical abilities, by utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and technology. By the end of the program, you’ll be able to incorporate the knowledge you’ve gained into a project – if you’re curious as to what interns have presented in previous websites, check it out here.

What does a typical day as a Biorocket intern look like?

A typical day in the Biorocket Internship starts with a brief lecture or workshop on a specific topic, followed by hands-on lab work. Students might spend the morning learning about DNA extraction techniques and then apply that knowledge in the lab during the afternoon. There are also regular seminars from guest speakers who are experts in various fields of biotechnology, providing students with insights into potential career paths and the latest industry trends.

How can I apply for Genspace's Biorocket Internship? Who is eligible?

Students who are at least 16 years old and currently attending an NYC public or charter school within 45 minutes of Genspace are eligible to apply. By applying, you’re showing commitment to participating in the program from February to August.

Applicants are required to submit a resume, academic information (no transcript required), responses to short essay questions, and contact information for their parents and one teacher / mentor reference. These materials should be submitted by the deadline, which is usually in early January. The selection committee reviews these materials to assess the applicant’s academic achievements, commitment to the field, and potential for growth. Early preparation and thorough attention to the application components can significantly enhance the chances of being selected for this prestigious internship. 

How much does it cost to attend Genspace's Biorocket Internship?

There is no cost to attend Biorocket Internship – instead, you’ll receive a $2,000 stipend for your participation! Therefore, it is an incredibly affordable option, making it accessible for families who demonstrate financial need. 

What are the pros and cons of this program?

Now that we understand more about the program, let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of Genspace’s Biorocket Internship.

Pros:

1. You will gain a lot of biology research experience.

Participating in the Genspace Biorocket Internship provides students with extensive hands-on experience in a real laboratory setting. This immersive environment allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical experiments, deepening their understanding of biological concepts. Under the mentorship of experienced scientists, students work on actual research projects, learning advanced techniques such as DNA extraction, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics. This level of highly detailed and hands-on exposure to biological research is rare at a high school setting.

2. You will benefit from a highly rigorous and comprehensive curriculum.

The Biorocket Internship offers a rigorous curriculum that covers a wide range of topics within biotechnology and synthetic biology. Students are exposed to both foundational and cutting-edge concepts through a combination of lectures, workshops, and lab sessions. The curriculum is designed to challenge students, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This thorough and demanding academic environment ensures that participants gain a deep and well-rounded education.

3. You will be part of a highly selective program that enhances your college application.

With a low acceptance rate,, the Biorocket Internship is highly competitive, attracting some of the brightest and most dedicated high school students in the area. Being selected for such a prestigious program is a testament to a student's academic achievements and passion for biotechnology. This selectivity adds significant value to college applications, as admissions committees recognize the rigor and prestige associated with Genspace. Participation in the program demonstrates a student's ability to succeed in a challenging environment, making them a more attractive candidate for top-tier universities.

4. You will be compensated for your participation. 

In addition to the high quality of the Biorocket Internship, the program remains highly affordable compared to similar opportunities. The program stipend of $2,000 is generous for high schooler researchers. This commitment to affordability allows more students to benefit from the internship without the financial burden that often accompanies such high-caliber educational experiences.

5. You will expand your professional network through expert mentorship and peer collaboration.

The Biorocket Internship provides students with the opportunity to interact with and learn from experienced scientists and industry professionals. These mentors offer valuable guidance, share insights into the field, and help students navigate their academic and career paths. Additionally, participants collaborate with like-minded peers, building connections that can lead to future opportunities in academia and industry. This network of mentors and peers is an invaluable resource, providing support and opening doors to new possibilities in the world of biotechnology.

Cons:

1. You will encounter a highly competitive application process.

The application process for the Biorocket Internship is extremely competitive. This means that many talented and passionate students may not be admitted due to the limited number of spots available. The rigorous selection criteria require applicants to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and a strong commitment to biotechnology, which can be challenging for some students. The competitive nature of the program may discourage potential applicants who are unsure of their chances of being accepted.

2. You will need to commit a significant amount of time and effort.

The Biorocket Internship is an intensive program that demands a considerable time commitment from participants. Students are expected to engage in daily lectures, workshops, and lab sessions, which can be exhausting and leave little room for other activities or responsibilities. Balancing the internship with personal commitments or other academic pursuits may be challenging, and the rigorous schedule requires students to be highly dedicated and organized. This time commitment might not be feasible for all students, especially those with other obligations.

3. You will be working in a high-pressure environment.

The rigorous nature of the Biorocket Internship creates a high-pressure environment where students must consistently perform at their best. The combination of complex coursework, challenging lab work, and the expectation to excel can be stressful for some participants. This pressure may lead to anxiety or burnout, especially for students who are not accustomed to such an intense pace. The demanding environment requires strong time management and stress management skills, which might not be suitable for everyone.

Our Thoughts

The Genspace Biorocket Internship offers an outstanding opportunity for high school students passionate about biotechnology, providing rigorous hands-on experience and expert mentorship. The program’s competitive nature and focus on rigorous research experience make it a prestigious addition to any college application. However, the intensive time commitment and selective application process may be prohibitive for some students. Despite these challenges, the benefits of participating in such a high-caliber program, including the invaluable skills and professional network gained, make it a worthwhile consideration for those seriously interested in advancing their education and career in biotechnology.

If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! 

This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. 

You can find the application link here

One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in doing university-level research in STEM or other subjects, which can become a topic to talk about in your college application, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation. 

Image Source: Genspace logo