I was a part of Temple University's Diamond Research Scholars program, and I appreciated the opportunity to conduct independent research in my field.
What I wish was different
It was self-guided, so this can be a strength or weakness depending on the individual.
Advice
Stay on top of the project and use the checkpoints to your advantage
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Psychologist Research Assistant
May - August 2019 • Philadelphia, PA
What I liked
I had the opportunity to work closely with a doctoral student in the research lab I was a part of. I conducted a systematic review of over 250 research studies related to the topic of her next research study. Another task of mine was data input which was really interesting because it allowed me to see the larger picture of research participants' interviews and experiences. Because of this research, I learned a lot about what I'd like to do in the future as well as about new topics within the field of psychology that I didn't have any exposure to before.
What I wish was different
I wish I was able to spend a longer time at the research lab than just this past summer because psychology research is, by nature, something that needs a lot of time. If I had been able to continue working in my position there throughout the school year, I would be able to see more results from the studies I was working on.
Advice
Learn about what the day-to-day experiences are like in a research lab that you are interested in working in. Some research labs are primarily data entry while others involved more hands-on experience with interviews, etc. Luckily I really like analyzing data and conducting systematic reviews, but those tasks aren't for everyone and it's important to ask ahead of time what your daily tasks will be so that you're not surprised when you get there.
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Computer Science Researcher
June - August 2018 • Philadelphia, PA
What I liked
I loved the freedom I was given to pursue research. Definitely scary, but I feel like it really represents the way that jobs work in our society.
What I wish was different
Advice
Sign up for these REU opportunities! There's literally no harm in trying, and if you get one, you'll be able to earn a lot of super valuable experience!
