Independent Research in College for the Pre-Meds

<p>So I am not a completely lost student going into pre-med track. But the good thing is that I have already developed my research skills.</p>

<p>I have now research on water quality testing with the local ponds, with an emphasis on flora and fauna behavioral patterns and effects. </p>

<p>I have written 2 research papers, and I might be a doing a 3rd one also.</p>

<p>My question to you is what is independent research like in college for pre-meds?
All I get is that its competitive, well if so, would my high school credentials be somewhat of a boost enough for me to START independent research (compared to my incoming freshmen I am way ahead in experimental science) at any level?</p>

<p>If so, should I continue to allocate time during the year to research, with a concern that my college professor or shadowing teacher will ask me of my past experiences and ask that I also provide maybe some work as proof? Emphasis on water quality right, because by now I know what I am doing and will specialize in the topic. Or should I switch to higher level, college research in high school to look even better, provided that the professor will ask of past credentials (e.g., Organic Chemistry Lab stuff?) </p>

<p>I was hoping this would get me starter higher up than the freshmen of my future class and put me somewhere higher than freshman would usually go?</p>

<p>Thank you for your input =)</p>