<p>I'm looking for some information/thoughts on how easy (or hard!) is it to get a research opportunity for an undergraduate freshman, and more specifically in computer science or related areas (applied math etc.).</p>
<p>I do know about SURF, but am specifically interested in knowing more about school year opportunities, and if they are available without having done a prior SURF?</p>
<p>I can’t speak for current students, but just approach a professor in the subject that’s doing research and ask if you can tag along with him. Or, propose a new project and see if he/she’d be interested in overseeing the research. Most professors would be willing or are already doing research.</p>
<p>What I was told by current undergrads is that many techers do not have enough time during the school year to commit wholly to a research project with a professor, though many will stay somewhat involved in the projects they were working on.</p>
<p>Also, they mentioned most freshmen do no do research their first year, and then about 50% do research over their first summer.</p>
<p>Thanks Scichem … you mean 50% do a SURF in the summer (and maybe stay somewhat involved with that during the school year?)</p>
<p>From the numbers I remember. This visit was 6 months ago, but all I can say for certain is that I met about 10 students that day and only one got involved in undergrad research freshmen year. An alum or current student would know better.</p>