<p>Ive been accepted and I want to get involved in research right away next fall. How do I do this? are there any programs or do you need to ask teachers?</p>
<p>Also, should I apply for the merit based scholarships for L&S? Do I have a good shot of getting one? 3.8 gpa (not in the top 10% though), 35 ACT, sports but no community service</p>
<p>Congratulations on your admission! I am glad you choose to attend one of the finest research universities in the world. </p>
<p>There is an official program. See <a href="http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/urs/%5B/url%5D">http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/urs/</a></p>
<p>Very few freshmen can get right into research due to their experience (or the lack of) and limited campus contacts. So, start off by communicating your interest to advisor(s) and faculty members whom you come in contact and see if any opportunity comes your way. A practical way is to work/volunteer part time in a research lab, often time just doing "misc" works to build up your credential and contacts. My wife (then GF) started off cleaning test tubes during her 1st year and went on to co-author a book before she graduated. </p>
<p>As your years go, identify the faculty members whom you like to work with and seek to do independent study under them. Often time you need to take and do very well in their classes. This was the route I took. Hopefully, you, too, will find this one-on-one acadmic experience very rewarding and among the highlight of your time in Madison. Good luck!</p>
<p>Besides the formal research jobs there are tons of part-time jobs in the labs cleaning and helping out as D808 suggests. There is a student job listing service on campus. Check the website.</p>
<p>Here's where to start.</p>
<p>Wow, are these jobs largely competitive? That looks quite interesting, and economical!</p>
<p>does anyone know about my second queston? I need to get started on my essays if I have a chance</p>
<p>Seems you should have some chance. Check with your local alumni club--they give money too.</p>