Any summer programs for freshmen that don't require LORs?

[idiotqueen92]

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I know it's late and freshmen have low chances anyway, but I thought I'd ask out of curiosity. I would volunteer for free in any lab if possible, except I can't afford transportation/housing.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Stumpyman]

It's probably way too late for research apps, but try local profs at your undergrad institution, they might be taking students. And generally every official program requires an LOR, so that's tough to get around.

 

[plumazul]

I know it's late and freshmen have low chances anyway, but I thought I'd ask out of curiosity. I would volunteer for free in any lab if possible, except I can't afford transportation/housing.

Thanks in advance!

I applied to several (wonderful, paid) summer programs last year (when I was a freshman) and was accepted to ALL of them. They had no problems with LORs from my high school AP Bio teacher and from the Dean of my college. Just because you may think your chances are low, it sure doesn't hurt to try.

 

[235788]

I can imagine they all require LORs

 

[plumhill]

Your best bet is to mass-email professors at your local universities and at other universities in your area. Be sure to mention you are willing to work as a volunteer (if you can, that is) and attach a resume. If I were you, I would be willing to do a phone or in-person interview beforehand as well (and mention that in the email). This is how I got my first research position, as a freshman 🙂