<p>I am currently a sophomore with ECE as my intended major. I am involved in a research project (Team) since my freshman year and continuing as a member through the present year. Does working with a research team comprising of students put me to a disadvantage in comparison to doing research with a prof in seeking admission to a grad school? Our team competes in an international competition each year.</p>
<p>Many thanks in advance!</p>
<p>Are you thinking about going to grad school for education? If so, know that it doesn’t really matter how you do your research. Education programs aren’t nearly as selective or competitive as other grad schools. The fact that you did any research should be fine. Know that you will probably have to do a masters first or get teaching experience before you go on to either EdD or PhD in ed - it’s just the way they are structured. They will be very concerned about your GPA, and if they require the GRE (many don’t), they will be concerned about that as well. Finally, your recs will be vital.</p>
<p>Thanks for your answer.
I should have explained that I am an engineering student with ECE (Electrical and Computer Engineering) as my major. So my concern is given the strong emphasis on research experience in undergrad for admission to grad school- what would give me an edge for admission to an engineering grad program? I want to continue doing research as part of a team in which I am currently involved, but may consider applying to work with a prof in my junior year if that will improve my chances for admission to a good grad program.</p>
<p>i think one advantage of working with a professor would be the letter of rec you will get.</p>
<p>Got it. I saw ECE as Early Childhood Education - my teacher background showing through!</p>
<p>I think the answer is going to depend somewhat on the sort of program for which you’re aiming.</p>
<p>If you’re talking about run-of-the-mill programs, sure, a group engineering project would be great and fine. (Although it is definitely an advantage to have a faculty member who’s supervised you in a work position for recommendations, as wilwn notes.)</p>
<p>If you’re talking about selective programs, a group engineering project still might be fine, but you have to be aware that you’re up against people who have worked on group projects and held simultaneous positions as research assistants for faculty members.</p>
<p>I think I will actively consider working with a Prof from next year. Actually I am so very involved in the current project in terms of the hours that I allocate, and enjoy the work too that I did not think of applying to a specific lab for assistantship. However, I am doing consulting for a a computer-engineering class too and will re-prioritise my schedule from next year.</p>
<p>Much appreciation for the input!</p>