I’m trying to decide if I should begin doing research or get a part-time job this fall. I’m taking 18 units and am involved in 2 student organizations (one with a time-consuming leadership position and an intramural sports club), both of which are very important to my personal happiness. Thus, I can’t both work and do research.
Which should I pick? On one hand, I’m considering going straight into a ChemE PhD after undergrad, and I’ve heard that 2+ years of research experience are recommended. Since apps are due beginning of senior year, clock’s ticking. On the other hand, I was unable to find a summer job, so I could really use the money. Due to scholarships, I only need to borrow less than half of my stafford loan eligibility for billable costs, so I’d have plenty of money left for personal expenses. I’m trying not to borrow for those sort of things, though. Help? I don’t have work study, by the way. Thanks.
Research! If you want to go into a PhD program, the research will be necessary - the more you can get, the better. Plus, since you’re just considering it, doing research will help you determine whether it’s really for you. It IS short-term sacrifice for long-term gain, though - primarily in having to be frugal and borrowing a little to cover personal expenses.
@juillet
Makes a lot of sense -thanks!
@Lilliana330 I had a similar choice to make and I chose to do research since I am interested in attending graduate school. But on the other hand, I didn’t need to borrow anyone to cover my personal expenses/tuition.
@julliet is 100% correct. If you want to get into a good graduate school, you need research experience!! Research experience is so, so, so crucial!
I’m actually going to disagree a bit… ONLY pick up unpaid research in place of a job if you can afford it. If you need the money, a paid job is far more important. Also, if you’re doing research for free, any decent lab should be EXTREMELY flexible around your schedule if you also have to work a paid job.
@romanigypsyeyes Well it’s not really a “need” per say; it’d just be nice to lower my debt even further. The difference is only between borrowing $2k vs. $4k in subsidized loans, though, which doesn’t seem like a big deal for an engineering major. I’m sure the labs would be very understanding, but it’s more of a matter of what I can personally handle…If I can’t find a research spot, I’ll definitely get the job, though. Thanks for commenting 
Only do research if you have a desire to dig deeper on some subject.
She said she was considering a PhD program so research is crucial and research during the term could lead to paid research in summer. Also research is a good alternative if you can’t find a job.