<p>Does it make sense to take a a paid research position in an area that you aren't going to major in but have always been interested in? Is there anything to gain from this besides the fact that its would be enjoyable? Are there any skill sets that S would acquire that he can carry through for the future?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>If you have that opportunity, I’d definitely take it. You might find you want to major in it after all, and if not, you could even discuss it in one of your essays. I dunno what you’d learn, as I’ve never done it, but I’m sure you’d learn something. Plus, you’ll get paid.</p>
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<p>Is this even a question?</p>
<p>Yes, it’s worth it!</p>
<p>Oh trust me, financially, its not worth it. The salary will only cover the cost of room and board. This leaves S in a hole because he needs summers to make money to pay for books and spending. So its not ‘worth’ it in a monetary sense but if someone can tell me what he will gain from it with regard to experience, I would love to hear there comments.</p>
<p>I did research one summer in a physics lab. I mostly wrote code in c for microcontrollers. Listing my research experience on my resume got me an interview for a summer internship at an engineering company. My research experience was specifically mentioned during the interview.</p>
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<p>You get to know your professors outside the classroom – what better way to do that than to spend the weekend in a biology lab with him/her? This leads to informal connections, recommendations, etc.</p>
<p>True. Thanks!</p>