I have the opportunity to work on a research project this summer that focuses a lot on animal behavior and genetics. Do medical schools only look for medically-based research? Or would this project work? I have heard some people say that schools just want applicants to get used to the techniques, procedures, etc., but others tell me that the only research that really counts for anything is a project related to the medical field. Thoughts?
Question about research
- Thread starter mcoste08
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Not at all. Any type of research experience is great. This sounds like a fun opportunity, you should definitely go for it.
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Go for it! Any research experience is better than none, and you should also aim for a bit of variety, if you can. This project sounds totally legit, but if after being in it you don't feel like it is medically-related enough for your taste, just move on to another one.
I think the most important factor should be how interesting you find the project. This will mean that you will be more likely to put time and effort into it, and get better results.
I did a very cool project on a pathogen that doesn't even involve humans. I did it more because it was interesting and I could see the rationale behind it. All my interviewers were impressed with it because I got a really good publication out of it. They didn't mention once the fact that it wasn't related to human medicine!
I think the most important factor should be how interesting you find the project. This will mean that you will be more likely to put time and effort into it, and get better results.
I did a very cool project on a pathogen that doesn't even involve humans. I did it more because it was interesting and I could see the rationale behind it. All my interviewers were impressed with it because I got a really good publication out of it. They didn't mention once the fact that it wasn't related to human medicine!
Research in any field is beneficial in undergrad. There is a whole process to research, from organization, to the higher-ups, to the IRBs, etc., that is great to learn about from a nobody-position at the bottom of a totem pole. Experiencing that is a great opportunity.
Where field-specific research becomes important is in selling yourself to residencies. Thats way down the road and you'll have opportunity for that while in school.
Also, research in genetics is quite medically related. You'll experience genetics in your first year.. and most likely be able to zonk out during class and ace the test. At least, thats what all my friends did while I was busy scribbling away notes as my research was in friggen human resources.
Where field-specific research becomes important is in selling yourself to residencies. Thats way down the road and you'll have opportunity for that while in school.
Also, research in genetics is quite medically related. You'll experience genetics in your first year.. and most likely be able to zonk out during class and ace the test. At least, thats what all my friends did while I was busy scribbling away notes as my research was in friggen human resources.
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Research in any filed is fine. Be sure to understand your research completely. Medical schools might ask you during an interview.
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research in any field is fine. i did mine on fish behavior and plants, neither is medically relevant.
