research dilemma

Pre-Med & Medical School Pre-Med Topics
1

<p>hey guys,</p>

<p>After having a couple definitive interviews, I have to make up my mind on what I should do. </p>

<p>First option -- Pretty much shadow researchers, watch, learn, and eventually practice a little of what they're doing. They offer a very flexible schedule (being a Freshman, that helps). The Dr. that interviewed me was very impressed, and I'm sure that in time more opportunities will open up with him and his dept.</p>

<p>Second option -- The Dr. was a little skeptical at first because I'm a Freshman. He's the head of the dept. and was rather condescending, but anyways, he introduced me to all the staff and researchers (one of which spoke the same language as me) and everything seemed fine. If I were to participate, I'd have to make a very large time commitment to them (~8-11 hrs/week). I don't know if I should devote that much time to it. The work will definitely be very extensive, grueling and competitive (as described by the person showing me around).</p>

<p>What do you guys think is the better option? Should I heavily commit myself to such a serious project? I'd really have to struggle between studying and working 11hrs week (I'm also on various other clubs, programs which take up a lot of time too). I'd appreciate any comments.</p>

2

<p>The 1st option isn't research since you aren't actually doing any of the work.</p>

<p>And 8-11 hours/wk is not a lot when you're talking about research. If you can't devote 10 hours/wk to research, you shouldn't do research. It'll be a waste of time.</p>

3

<p>I'll agree with ncg, you have to be able to devote that much time if you want to be remotely productive. I currently put anywhere between 15-20 hrs/week, granted i'm a junior and have had more time to develop (some) time management skills necessary for college.</p>

<p>It seems pretty simple though, as ncg said. Would you rather be involved in research or not?</p>

4

<p>Thanks for the comments guys. You're absolutely right -- I'm gonna go ahead an do it; we'll see how it works out. Thanks again.</p>