https://mpp.soceco.uci.edu/

UC Irvine - Master of Public Policy

Research Intern

June - August 2021 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

I learned how to use some new computational software to help in Research. Majorly worked on modeling of proteins and data analysis.

What I wish was different

I wish it was in-person because it was virtual.

Advice

Take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way. I initially was uninterested in this internship but I learned a lot even though it was virtual.
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Research asssitant

September 2019 - June 2020 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

Flexible with the deadline

What I wish was different

Advice

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Research Assistant

June - September 2020 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

I like how I was able to create my own project.

What I wish was different

I wish it was more organized.

Advice

Come prepare always.
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Undergraduate Research Assistant

September 2019 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

I liked the research knowledge that I gained by interacting with participants and collecting research data. I also liked the social connections I formed with my research team.

What I wish was different

I wish I had joined earlier and provided more available hours so I could have maximized my time and interactions with research participants.

Advice

Try to find lab that is dedicated to a research topic that you are interested in and attend the lab meetings as often as possible. This will help you when networking with the faculty members and graduate students who are also involved in the lab.
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Biomedical Research Student

June 2018 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

Working on my own project each summer, and learning about different lab techniques and procedures. I enjoy collaborating with other students and collecting data. I also enjoy doing my own research on different topics related to the lab and its projects.

What I wish was different

Advice

Studying on your own is key to knowing about your lab and its projects. Be aware of different procedures used in the lab and make sure to understand what you do step by step. Never be afraid to ask for help!
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Research Intern

June - August 2019 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

What I wish was different

Advice

Be patient with the lab process, be curious, and take the initiative to learn more about the lab processes and how it applies to the research goal of your lab.
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Parking Attendant

November 2018 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

Nice co-workers and a relaxed atmosphere 80% of the time.

What I wish was different

Advice

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Psychology Research Assistant

June - July 2019 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

UCI is big, research university that have good research facilities and technology. I worked in a big lab with many graduate students, undergraduate research assistants, and numerous computers, EEG equipments, and other high-tech devices for sleep research. The way their lab work is very different, and I learned a lot from it.

What I wish was different

I wish I had more communications and feedback from the principal investigator and more opportunities to get more involved (in depth) in their research.

Advice

Don't assume a cooperative or embracing work environment at big research institutions. Be cautious and strict of yourself, and be super professional all the time no matter what.
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Graduate Researcher

July 2019 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

It’s experience that is leading me towards my career goals.

What I wish was different

N/a

Advice

I would recommend it.
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Assistant Student Researcher

June - September 2019 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

Obtained much needed research experience

What I wish was different

Hours could have been more flexible.

Advice

Definitely do not be afraid to ask for help when you are confused or wish to know more about the experiments you are conducting.
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Research assistant

June - August 2018 • Irvine, CA

What I liked

The weather, the faculty and mentor were super supportive

What I wish was different

A longer research time period

Advice

Its very important to expand horizons when doing research.
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