Frequently Asked Questions about the Brain Bee:
How Difficult is the Brain Bee?
The majority of the information in the brain bee is easily digestible by high school students, especially those who have a base knowledge of biology. Doing well in the brain bee requires both a fascination with the material and a commitment to studying rather than an innate talent at science.
How Time Consuming is Studying for the Brain Bee?
Simple Answer: As long as you want it to be! If students want to be well prepared, they can follow our study guide or read a few chapters of Brain Facts each week, which is designed to take three hours or less. Our bootcamp, held a few weeks before the bee itself, is a great resource for studying.
Do I have to be in a club to join the Brain Bee?
No, but studying with a club can be a great experience. If you don’t have a brain bee in your school, look to the next question about starting one, or try to connect with a school in your area that has a club. Even getting help from a teacher who is interested in the subject will do wonders for your learning. Neuroscience is always more fun when you have someone to share it with.
How can I start a neuroscience club (for students and advisors)?
Starting a club is as simple as filling out a form and getting an interested advisor in most schools. Advisors can be any type of science teacher and interested party, and its important to note that over time clubs become more and more student-led. Grab your friends and anyone who’s interested in science and pick a weekly time to meet as well as a weekly topic. Have discussions, have fun, and learn new things!
And, Finally, Why should I participate in the brain bee?
The brain bee is a unique and fun experience to delve into a new scientific field. You’ll have access to the advice of experts as well as the ability to meet other passionate students. Neuroscience is a field that can be applied to nearly every interest, be it chemistry, behavior, computer science, or music. Plus, it looks good on a college application and the fascinating things you learn will stick with you for years!
Contact Alicia Ebert Alicia.Ebert@uvm.edu with additional questions.