Research project dilemma

[NYCKevin]

<p>Hey guys, I am doing a research project involving environmental science/water quality but have been having difficulty trying to find a mentor and a lab to work in. Recently, however, a professor at a local public university expressed interest in working with students from my high school. She is doing research on endangered turtle species, and the research will be submitted into the same research competition that I was originally planning to enter (not Intel or Siemens). </p>

<p>I am not sure if I should entirely abandon my initial idea. If I stick with it, I will be working alone but possibly without the help of a well-connected and knowledgeable college professor. If I work with the professor on her research, I will be working with two other students and have MANY more resources, but will lose almost total control of the project. </p>

<p>What should I do? Thanks.</p>

[kcdecember]

<p>If you honestly believe you have the self-motivation and means to conduct independent research, you should just do the project on your own. However, having a professor/mentor will be immensely helpful since she will give you her own experience/knowledge and help keep you focused/motivated. Knowing a professor might also open some doors for you… maybe she could write you a rec letter for college or introduce you to another professor who offers you a research position. Of course, I’m only speculating. I think you should just go with your gut instinct.</p>