Independent Study vs. Volunteer Research Assistant

<p>Hello, I was not sure where to post this thread... but as I am a pre-med student preparing for medical school, I decided to post in this forum, I hope that's okay.</p>

<p>Anyways, I was wondering what the exact difference was between the two in terms of the roles I will be able to play.</p>

<p>I know that for independent study, (at least in my school) you can get academic credit units, while volunteer.. well is just volunteer.</p>

<p>Which opportunity will allow me a greater chance of say, getting something published? And yes, I may get flamed for saying this but which qualifies as having had "research experience" during the college years?</p>

<p>Thanks alot!</p>

<p>Both would probably count as research experience.</p>