<p>I recently phoned two professors in the chemistry department (I'm chem E) about wanting to work in their research groups, and surprisingly both got back to me within the hour saying that they would like to meet with me. I have zilch experience in the things they are researching; however, I am immensely interested in what both are researching. I plan on meeting with both of them in about two weeks. </p>
<p>I'm going to obviously read as much as I can about their research before meeting with them, but how should I present myself? What can I offer to the group? (Both are fairly large and comprised of about 3/4 grad students, 1/4 undergrad). I'll be entering my second year. I'm honestly fine with cleaning and setting things up until I get the hang of all that happens. Should I say this when I meet with the professors?</p>
<p>/eeek/ If you have any personal stories about meeting with your adviser for the first time, that would be great too. :)</p>
<p>In general they already know you will not be that useful at first. The importan thing is that you portray yourself as enthusiastic by knowin some of their work already and showing a willingness to work and learn.</p>
<p>Ask questions and focus on what you can do to make their lives easier. Talk a little about why you want to get experience doing research, but keep the focus on their projects and what you can do to help.</p>
<p>Biggest thing is to portray yourself as someone who’s doing research because you’re interested in it, and not because everyone else is doing it and you feel like you need to so as not to fall behind.</p>
<p>It’s generally pretty apparent which students are which once they start doing work in the lab.</p>
<p>How would this same question apply to aerospace engineering. i am also an entering second year student. I feel that getting a research opportunity for engineering majors is hard. Any advice would be really appreciated.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone! I’m really excited/nervous about meeting with them. </p>
<p>red619, Just look at your university’s aerospace (or even mechanical) research page to find profs whose research interests you. I was really surprised that I contacted two and both got back with me quickly. Also, I mentioned volunteering to both (though they suggested doing it for class credit…essentially the same…no $$). I think being willing to work for free and having a flexible schedule (they will understand about classes) will be helpful in landing your first position. Good luck!</p>