<p>that during the summer, when i would be working on my project, he would not be able to be there very often so I would be working with his graduate student. is this good or bad?</p>
<p>expected</p>
<p>usually that's what high school kids do, work with grad students</p>
<p>I agree with fizix: expected. It's uncommon that a senior scientist or professor will have much time to sit down with a young student for many hours each week to go over the very basics. Summer is also prime time for conferences, so your mentor may be traveling.</p>
<p>Whether working with a grad student is good or bad, it depends. My experiences have been good.</p>
<p>During my first research program, I worked with an older (early 30s) undergraduate student who knew the research very well and was able to teach me easily. Without him, I would have gotten nothing done, because none of the other students wanted to help me and I only met with my research mentor a few times that summer.</p>
<p>My second research program, I was paired with a young scientist (just graduated with his Ph.D.) and he and I hit it off great. I loved asking questions, he loved to talk, and he was always there to speak with. My research advisor on paper kept in contact with the both of us, but she traveled a lot and was always very busy.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if you end up working with a grad student who doesn't know what he/she is talking about or doesn't care to help you, you'll have a frustrating summer. I hope it works out all right for you!</p>