Extracurriculars for a Career in Physics
Physicists study matter, energy, and the laws that govern the universe. Physics competitions, research programs, and math camps help high schoolers dig into the subject early.
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Programs for a Career in Physics
Why it fits: Students complete challenging physics coursework with emphasis on scientific research and real-world applications.
Why it fits: Students explore advanced mathematical topics like topology and graph theory foundational to physics.
Why it fits: Advanced mathematics is foundational to theoretical physics and problem-solving in physical sciences.
Why it fits: Students conduct college-level experimental research in astrophysics, directly engaging in physics inquiry and discovery.
Why it fits: Advanced STEM research training develops experimental design and analysis skills essential to physics research.
Why it fits: Rigorous science courses and research projects directly prepare students for physics-focused higher education.
Why it fits: Advanced science courses develop the theoretical and analytical foundations essential to physics study and research.
Why it fits: Students conduct original independent research projects demonstrating scientific talent and creativity in physics.
Why it fits: Deep exploration of number theory and mathematical proofs mirrors foundational physics problem-solving approaches.
Why it fits: Program explicitly covers particle physics and quantum science through hands-on activities and expert lectures.
Why it fits: Students work directly with physicists and engage in college-level physics coursework and lab experiences.
Why it fits: Students work directly on particle physics research projects with experts at a major accelerator laboratory.
Why it fits: JSHS challenges students to conduct original research in STEM, a fundamental practice for physicists.
Why it fits: Science category allows submission of original research and scientific investigations.
Why it fits: Physics events and cross-disciplinary competitions directly cover physics concepts and problem-solving applicable to the field.
Why it fits: USAMO develops rigorous proof-writing and advanced conceptual reasoning central to theoretical physics research.
Why it fits: Students prepare for and compete in the International Physics Olympiad, applying advanced physics knowledge and problem-solving directly.
Why it fits: IPhO directly tests theoretical and experimental physics knowledge at the highest secondary level.
Why it fits: Mathematical rigor and creative problem-solving in AIME are foundational skills for theoretical physics.
Why it fits: Physics is explicitly listed as a scientific area of focus within the program's research opportunities.
Why it fits: Research apprenticeships across all areas of science and mathematics build foundational physics research skills.
Why it fits: Students learn about orbits, space physics, and applications of mathematical concepts like orbit determination and the rocket equation.
Why it fits: Students participate in physical science exploration and experimentation using state-of-the-art labs and equipment throughout the two-week program.
Why it fits: Students conduct synchrotron-based research projects, directly engaging in experimental physics methodology and data analysis.
Why it fits: ISEF is a premier physics competition where students conduct original research and present findings to expert judges.
Why it fits: Physics courses directly develop the foundational concepts and problem-solving skills essential to physics careers.
Why it fits: Hands-on research in science and math at a research university builds core skills for physics careers.
Why it fits: Intensive exploration of mathematical principles supports advanced physics research and problem-solving.
Why it fits: Program offers summer research across science and engineering disciplines with UCSC researchers, including physics-focused projects.
Why it fits: Research clusters in astrophysics and radioastronomy provide direct experience in physics research and discovery.
Why it fits: Students answer physics questions and compete in fast-paced science competitions testing deep disciplinary knowledge.
Why it fits: Program covers physics research topics like gravitational waves and LIGO, requiring original research and scientific methodology.
Why it fits: Program emphasizes research, evidence-based decision-making, and transforming knowledge into practical experimental action.
Why it fits: Students practice scientific and engineering methods with international mentoring in polar field research.
Why it fits: Students explore physics concepts like motion and energy through hands-on labs and rover experiments.
Why it fits: Students visit Fermilab and Argonne National Laboratory, experiencing groundbreaking STEM research firsthand.
Why it fits: Mathematical modeling through puzzle-based contests builds foundation skills for physics problem-solving and conceptual understanding.
Why it fits: Students solve physics problems and apply physics concepts in a timed competition format.
Why it fits: Interns engage in authentic research across disciplines including quantum pathways and gravity field studies.
Why it fits: Biophysics, computational biology, and engineering disciplines provide exposure to quantitative research methods.
Why it fits: Students work with renowned faculty and researchers on advanced STEM topics in intensive four-week residential program.
Why it fits: Students gain exposure to STEM careers at a national accelerator laboratory and meet physics professionals at various career stages.
Why it fits: Intensive college-level mathematics is foundational to physics research and theoretical work.
Why it fits: Program supports research across all STEM fields including atmospheric and space sciences.
Why it fits: Students analyze and explain physics concepts demonstrated in their photographs through written analysis.
Why it fits: Students research and explain complex physics concepts through video storytelling.
Why it fits: Program offers direct experience working on science and engineering research projects at a national laboratory.
Why it fits: Camp directly explores physics concepts and invisible forces through hands-on experiments and real-world problem-solving activities.