Question about summer programs

[WhiteMacBook]

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[randombetch]

I say definitely 1).

 

[NASA123]

Hi everyone,
I am currently looking for some summer opportunities. I am looking at 2 options, and would like some of your insights and advices before I make a decision.

1) Return to a university lab I had worked at the 3 years. I am on very close terms with my lab professor, who told me to come back to work under him whenever I wanted. He told me he would offer me an interesting project to work on and that I could live at his house over the summer, as I did on several occasions when research became intensive. The advantage is that I would be in a very comfortable atmosphere, be guaranteed a paid job, be guaranteed an interesting project, etc.

2) Try out some new things, finish applying to summer programs such as SURF, SURP, etc. I am almost done my applications to these summer programs, but will not send them out unless I decide over 1) since I would need to ask my old lab prof for recommendation letters. I looked at these summer programs just to make life more spicy and see what else there is I could do for fun.

Any constructive insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

I like number 2 a bit more... It will add diversity to your resume. 4 years in one lab as opposed to 3 in 1 lab and X amount of time in another program. I was in the same boat and decided to branch out - I don't regret it at all and found excellent networking opportunities.

Also, I wanted to try some different things - 3 years in one lab was enough for me. Hope this helps...