<p>Okay... I feel stupid for asking this, but what exactly do people do when they research things for, let's say, biology. I know that through research you get to explore different fields, but I don't know if it's like mixing chemicals hands-on or simply going into the library and gathering information on a certain topic.</p>
<p>When people talk about research, they're usually referring to lab research where you actually do stuff.</p>
<p>There are research jobs however where you simply go on the internet or to the library to research a certain topic.</p>
<p>Would it be possible to start research my second semester of freshman year even though I've never had any research experience?</p>
<p>from what my interciewer told me</p>
<p>you can start right away. if you have sno experience, youll probably start off as a glass washer (he told me that anyway) and then youd move on to the research stuff.</p>
<p>its as easy as going and opening the book of researchers looking for students, emailing a couple, and getting a position.</p>
<p>Some people begin research right away. It's difficult to convince professors however that you are qualified when you have no research experience, are just a freshman, and have not taken any relevant courses in college.</p>
<p>Therefore, your best bet freshman year is to be a lab assistant (which entails washing beakers and general grunt work).</p>
<p>norcalguy, in the long run, would time be better spent being a lab assistant or waiting until one takes courses to build up knowledge for researching?</p>
<p>Do both at the same time. I spent my freshman year working as a lab assistant while taking the relevant bio and chem courses.</p>
<p>Would it be wise to continue to work with the same professor after being a lab assistant so that you would get to know the professor better, and thus increasing the personal aspect of your letter or recommendation?</p>
<p>Only if you are interested in the professor's research. As a lab assistant, that doesn't really matter. Washing beakers is washing beakers. But once you become a research assistant, you should take an interest in what the professor is researching. If it doesn't interest you, then move on to someone else.</p>
<p>Okay, thanks for all your help norcalguy. You've helped me once again. I might have to bug you some more later. :)</p>