It's a very hands on job where I get to learn how machines used in a lab setting operate. I get a chance to see the different research going on on campus.
What I wish was different
More direct involvement in the set up and use of the new distillation tower installed in the Unit Operation lab.
Advice
It's a very convenient and flexible job for anyone who's studying in engineering.
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Undergraduate Research Assistant
January - August 2022 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
The research was rewarding and the coworkers were friendly.
What I wish was different
The principle investigator should have respected privacy and personal boundaries more.
Advice
Try to focus on the small details to get better results, and always clarify how you will receive funding.
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Undergraduate Researcher
May - July 2021 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
Working with diverse group of researchers on unfamiliar problems
What I wish was different
Advice
Apply early and plan to get something publishable from the beginning of the program
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Pre-Scholars Academy Summer Staff
July - August 2019 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
As a member of the Summer Staff at PSA, I was in charge of tutoring in writing and acting as a TA to the professor. This job was amazing. It was a lot of work and a lot of hours but my favorite part was getting to work with and mentor the potential incoming freshmen and learning how to be a leader by teaching them how to become one. It was the most transformative experience of my life.
What I wish was different
I wish that I knew from the start that the experiences I came in with are just as valid as the experiences of people who have been doing this work longer. However, just because my experiences are valid doesn't mean I don't have much to learn.
Advice
Be open with yourself. This experience was only able to be had because I was open and constantly seeking to learn. It you like interpersonal, inspirational, and caring jobs, then this would be the job for you. If you aren't afraid to put in the work.
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Undergraduate Researcher
August 2017 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
I've gained a lot of knowledge about various lab procedures and hot to set up and run experiments.
What I wish was different
Wish I had more time outside of school so I could work more.
Advice
Don't be afraid to ask questions and for help if you need it.
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Summer tiger admissions and aid representative
May 2019 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
I liked the job and the team I worked with
What I wish was different
I wish we had more time to learn the information
Advice
It’s a lot of work but it’s very rewarding
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Assistant
August 2016 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
The work environment.
What I wish was different
I would have done something for my major
Advice
Pick a job that helps your resume look better.
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Lab Assistant
May - August 2019 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
I enjoyed learning how to efficiently work in a lab as a professional environment. I learned the process of working under a grant from an outside company and gained a lot of experience not only in research, but in communication as well.
What I wish was different
I wish I would have had more background in the research we were working on. This was a very specialized industrial project, so it was difficult to conceptualize the big picture with only my knowledge in chemistry.
Advice
I learned the value of being self-sufficient, reliable, and trust-worthy. After a few weeks, my bosses knew I showed up on time everyday and saw how competent I was in the lab, so they allowed me to try experiments on my own and continued to teach me more advanced procedures. My experience over the summer propelled me ahead of all my classes, and I gained a plethora of experience in the professional realm.
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REU
May - July 2018 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
My principle investigator was great. She was very easygoing and let me be independent but was more than willing to help when I needed it. The facilities at LSU were brand new with their engineering building, and my work itself was fairly interesting.
What I wish was different
I wish there had been a better way to keep track of time worked in the lab.
Advice
Don't slack off on your project. The experience is extremely worthwhile if you put passion and hard work into it.
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Physics Research Intern
May - July 2018 • Baton Rouge, LA
What I liked
Working closely with faculty.
Exciting research and well-funded department.
